Thank you for your patience and correspondence while we planned, postponed and rescheduled the 2020 Lightning Youth Worlds. The news today is bad and good--we will start with the bad news: The 2020 Lightning Youth Worlds which were postponed have now been canceled for 2021. The good news is the Lightning Class embraces young sailors and there will be many opportunities for you to sail Lightnings in the near future.
The decision to cancel was not an easy one. Consultations with medical professionals, uncertainties of international travel and the overwhelming goal of keeping our competitors and volunteers safe all factored into the decision. The Youth Worlds is an event at which the social interaction is as much a part of the affair as the racing. This treasured Lightning Class event involves many volunteers and much interaction with and between competitors from 3 continents, which does not seem prudent at this time. More information regarding future Youth Worlds scheduling will be forthcoming—it will return!!
With enthusiastic junior competitors from so many countries, we know the outlook is positive. We encourage all countries and all sailors to take this time to prepare for the future. If your climate and local health policies allow, get some time on the water. Train some new sailors, practice with your team, or have a virtual clinic. Plan local youth clinics or regattas and recruit some new sailors. Reach out to some of the friends you’ve made at past events to reconnect. We will be sailing and socializing again—take this time to prepare for it!
Stay Safe, Stay Positive and Stay Tuned!!