Introducing the New Year Optimist High-Performance Clinic, a unique opportunity for young sailors in full-time education to maximise their sailing potential during the winter school holidays.

Overview:

Join SailCoach’s Optimist High-Performance Clinic, specially designed to provide quality sailing time for Optimist sailors during the winter school holidays. Led by experienced coaches renowned for their ability to inspire and prepare young sailors, this clinic takes place at our Malta SailBase, offering optimal sailing conditions year-round. With top of the range Winner Optimists and specialised coaching, participants will gain valuable hours on the water to enhance their speed and sailing techniques.

Objectives:

We understand that high performance comes from dedicated hours on the water. Our clinic aims to provide precisely that, with expert coaches guiding sailors to become smarter and faster Optimist sailors. Through on the water drills to improve boat handling, focused racing training to enhance race strategy, video analysis with targeted feedback, and engaging learning experiences, we’ll equip participants with the skills and knowledge to excel.

Pre-Entry Experience:

This clinic is tailored for boys and girls aged 8 to 15 who have been racing for at least two years and are ready to embark on international competition or enhance their sailing skills for success on their national circuit.

Lead Coach – Pavlo Dontsov

Pavlo Dontsov is one of the most respected Optimist coaches on the international circuit, with an impressive record of developing young sailors to championship level, including an Optimist World Champion. Originally from Ukraine and now based in Italy, Pavlo received the prestigious 2023 Seamaster Award at the Düsseldorf Boat Show in recognition of his outstanding coaching achievements.

As SailCoach’s guest Optimist Head Coach, Pavlo leads several of our international training clinics and provides coaching support at selected major regattas throughout the year. His experience, technical knowledge and ability to bring out the best in young sailors make him a valuable member of the SailCoach coaching team.

Program:

27th December 2026: (arrival day)

Arrive into Malta Airport between 08:00 hrs and 22:00 hrs and be met by one of SailCoach’s friendly staff. They will take you to the Royal Malta Yacht Club, the venue for this Optimist New Year Clinic.

28th December to the 1st of January 2027:

The Optimist New Year Clinic daily schedule will start each morning with a group briefing at 10:00hrs in the Royal Malta Yacht Club and finish at 17:30hrs.

2nd January 2027: (departure day)

After the clinic, you can depart for Malta Airport between 08:00 hrs and 22:00 hrs for your journey home after some quality time.

Booking Information:

To participate in the Optimist High-Performance Clinic at our Malta SailBase, located at the Royal Malta Yacht Club, from the 27th of December 2026 to the 2nd of January 2027, we offer a comprehensive package price. This includes fitness training, Optimist charter and our world-class coaching. Additional expenses to consider are flights, accommodation, meals, and pocket money.

Please Note: We provide free airport transfers on designated days, and transfers outside these days and times may incur a fee of approximately €20 for city centre hotels by airport taxis.

Discover the transformative power of our coaching by joining us for the Optimist High-Performance Clinic, and let us help your young sailor improve their skills and become a much better Optimist sailor.