Sofia Cerqueira represented Brazil and Clube dos Jangadeiros in the North American Optimist Championship, held in Antigua and Barbuda, in the Caribbean region, between the 2nd and 9th of July. The Flotilla da Jangada athlete had a great campaign in the competition, which brought together more than 120 sailors from different countries.
A high-level event
The North American Optimist Championship is one of the most important events in the children’s sailing class in the world. The competition is organized by the International Optimist Association (IODA) and follows the Sailing Racing Rules of the International Sailing Federation (World Sailing). The event is divided into three categories: the North American Individual Championship (INAM), the North American Team Championship (TRNAM) and the Nations Cup (NC).
Brazil was the great INAM champion, with four sailors among the top ten. The highlight was Lucas Urmenyi, who ranked first overall with 26 points after disposal. He was followed by Lucas Freitassecond, with 31 points, and Eduardo Motta, fourth, with 42 points. The best Brazilian was Marina Heinkewho finished seventh overall and first among girls with 54 points.
Sofia Cerqueira’s participation
Sofia Cerqueira was the only representative of Clube dos Jangadeiros at the event. She was part of the Brazilian team made up of 20 athletes, 14 boys and six girls. Sofia showed a lot of grit and determination during the ten races held in Caribbean waters.
The sailor ended the championship in 57th place overall, with 336 points after the discard. His best result was in the fifth race, when he won the 12th place. Among the girls, she ranked 19th placebeing the fourth best Brazilian.
Sofia Cerqueira started sailing at the age of seven at Clube dos Jangadeiros. She is part of the Flotilla da Jangada, which is a reference in the training of sailors in Rio Grande do Sul. The athlete has participated in several regional, national and international championships, such as the Optimist World Championship in Thailand, in 2022.
Clube dos Jangadeiros congratulates Sofia Cerqueira for her brilliant participation in the North American Optimist Championship and wishes much success in her nautical career.
