Federation vice-president Thong Rathasak with team members of the Cambodia Sailing Federation (CSF) on January 29. CSF
Thong Rathasak, permanent vice-president of the Cambodia Sailing Federation (CSF), has lauded the successful conclusion of the recent 2023 National Sailing Championships.
He shared his appreciation for the efforts of the CSF officials and other relevant parties, saying they had ensured that the January 27-29 event – held at Preah Sihanouk province’s Cambodia National Sailing Centre – ran smoothly.
Preah Sihanouk provincial governor Kuoch Chamroeun noted that each of the yachtsmen and women had conceded their losses and celebrated their wins in a highly respectable manner.
Rathasak said a total of 30 sailors took part in five classes of racing, with the windsurfing class the most popular, attracting 13 competitors. The byte boat category, a single-handed yacht designed specifically for sailors of up to 66kg, drew the fewest, with just two entries.
He described the competition as tough, and reminded the sailors that they must continue workaing to improve their abilities.
“I congratulate the new sailing champions. The winners should remember that a great champion must apply themselves to the sport with discipline and honesty, as well as talent,” he told the sailors, during the January 29 closing ceremony of the tournament.
“All of you must honour the tradition of sailing sports. First, you have to believe in your potential. Second, you have to keep the environment clean, both on land and on the water. Third, you have to stay disciplined and continue to train hard. Finally, you must realise that success cannot come from just one person,” he added.
The windsurfing open class title was claimed by Men Channarong, followed by Monh Phannak and Kong Samrach.
Four contestants entered the iQFOiL open, a single make boardsail class which uses the same boards used at the Olympic Games. The winner was Keo Pheanun, with the strikingly similar-named Keo Phearun in second, and Sem Brospov completing the top three.
The International Laser Class Association (ILCA) open saw six entries, with Nhov Chan taking the top spot. In second place was Luch Darong, who was followed home by female sailor Chan Sok Veasna.
Nhim Phanna defeated Tha Buntheng in the byte boat open.
Five contestants took part in the optimist-class open. Bo Som Y secured the title, with Tith Sovanna and Thoeun David placing second and third, respectively.
“This was an important competition, both for developing our sailing talent, but also for assessing the competence of our match officials and judges,” said Rathasak.
“With the support of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, we will continue to promote the sailing sports in Cambodia, especially as the Kingdom prepares to host the 2029 Asian Youth Games,” he added.
