High-Tension Drama as Tornado Open, Mixed and Youth World Championships Kick Off

The 2025 Tornado Open, Mixed and Youth World Championships got off to a cracking start with an exhilarating first day of racing. Competitors were met with light winds and challenging conditions, all amid the vibrant atmosphere of what promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent.

As the second race unfurled, the breeze freshened to 7-9 knots and rivalry was rife. Michaela & Marek and Mavros & Parianos found themselves in a bow-to-bow battle throughout the contest, each vying for the lead as they skillfully adapted to the shifting winds. Finally, it was Michaela & Marek who swept ahead, securing their first ‘bullet’ win of the championship, with Mavros & Parianos trailing close in second place.

After the enthralling first day, Michaela Pavlisova & Marek Pavlis emerged as frontrunners in the Open Mixed and Youth categories; however, Nikolaos Mavros & Polykarpos Parianos are hot on their heels, with matching points on the score-board. The Tornado Class recognises ‘youth teams’ as those where both sailors are under 26 years old, offering a thrilling competition landscape for talent born in 2000 or later.

Once ashore, the racers were treated to a Traditional Pita Party—a fitting finish to an action-packed opening day. Expectations are now set sky-high for the rest of the championship as the world’s top sailors prepare to take on their next challenge.