GUAM YOUTH SAILORS TAKE TO PALAU WATERS

KOROR, PALAU – On January 12, 2024 the Guam Sailing Federation and Marianas Yacht Club sent eleven youth sailors ranging from 10 through 14 years old to compete in the first-ever Palau Guam Friendship Race at the beautiful Koror Meyns Skojio, Palau.

The eleven sailors representing Guam are Koa Wainer, Emanuel Calori, Richard Wenden, Joaquin (Jack) Cassidy, Pia Inman, Lucia Calori, John Gutierrez, Skyler Duenas, Tanom Camacho, Leroy Norman, and Erica Paulino. Coaches are Patricia Cassidy and Maeva Conroy, led by the President of Guam Sailing Federation and Marianas Yacht Club Commodore, Mike Cassidy.

“I think that the event turned out great! The kids really impressed me in their abilities to adjust to the weather and they truly did such an amazing job. I am so proud of how they performed, and we were even able to bring home a trophy!” – Patricia Cassidy, Guam Coach.

There were two divisions, Yellow (Advanced) and Blue (Beginner), with Guam taking the award for Blue division and Palau earning the top spot for Yellow which are earned through points accumulation. 

Standout sailors for Guam include Pia Inman who earned 2^nd place in several heats as well Richard Wenden, both representing Yellow division. Joaquin “Jack” Cassidy earned the Top Sailor award for the Blue division. 

“As a coach being able to watch the sailors take everything they learned and apply it to the races was so amazing. Team Guam was able to handle rough conditions and win the blue division. I’m proud of every sailor and the work they put in.” – Maeva Convoy, Guam Coach.

“We’d like to thank the Palau Sailing Association for hosting a wonderful event for the kids to showcase their skills and build friendships with fellow sailors from Palau. This was a great opportunity for our team to see what’s possible out there.  Conditions were challenging with an average wind speed of 15 knots & gusts to 25+ but our sailors performed better & better in each race.  The entire weekend was a fantastic experience thanks to the hospitality of the Palau sailing community.” – Mike Cassidy, President of Guam Sailing Federation.