The 29er European Championships 2025 unfolded over six intense days at Lake Garda. More than 250 boats from 29 nations battled across six fleets. Sailors faced everything from steady Garda breezes to sudden storms and light calms. This event stood as the largest and most competitive 29er championship in history.
New Zealand’s presence was strong throughout the regatta. Kiwi crews showed smart tactics, solid boat handling, and impressive resilience. The top New Zealand team, Nelsen Meacham and Joe Leith, climbed as high as 7th mid-week. They finished 11th overall, earning the title of Top Overseas Team. Their consistent performances across shifting conditions proved their calibre.
The highlight for New Zealand came from the U17 division. Ewan Brazle and Toby Clark won the U17 Open European Championship title. Their sailing combined speed and strategy to beat seasoned European crews from France and Germany. This victory signals a bright future for Kiwi youth sailing.
New Zealand’s wider team also gained valuable experience. Crews like Bella Jenkins and Jess Handley in the White Fleet, and Kate Rasmussen and Rose Dickey in the Purple Fleet, showed steady improvement throughout. These results indicate the strength of New Zealand’s youth development programmes.
The championship podium featured European teams. Germany’s Lucas and Moritz Hamm claimed the overall title with consistent top finishes. France’s Nolann Huet Des Aunay and Titouan Gresset took second place. Switzerland’s Ikke Huber and Liam Berger completed the podium, having led early in the week.
Beyond individual results, the Nations Cup went to France, reflecting their depth and dominance. Yet, New Zealand showed the growing international strength of the 29er class. Smaller teams from Puerto Rico and the USA also earned attention for strong performances, showing the global appeal of this fast, tactical skiff.
Looking forward, in Europse the focus shifts to upcoming EuroCup events. While the New Zealand contingent returns to New Zealand to practice and compete at the local club and national level. Highlighted events on the world stage include the World Championships (August) and the Youth Worlds (December), both held in Portugal.
The 29er European Championships 2025 have highlighted the rising talent in New Zealand, and the teams should be proud of their contributions. As the class continues to grow globally, our Kiwi crews show they’re ready to challenge Europe’s best. With multiple competitions ahead, the 29er journey is just beginning for this next generation of sailors.
