The International Optimist Dinghy Association of Ireland (IODAI) promises its young members “will laugh, rig, race and have lots of fun both on and off the water” when sailing eventually resumes.
In a statement on its Facebook page last week, the IODAI said: “We hope that you, your parents, family and friends are well in these difficult times. We know how hard it is at the moment and how much life has changed so much for you in just a few weeks.
“We are so proud of all our Optimist sailors who are doing their best with adapting to this new and temporary way of life, with online school, exercising close to home, only catching up with friends on social media and of course how you have taken to online sailing regattas!
“It just shows what we have always known that Optimist sailors are the youngest sailors in the world but they are also the most amazing adaptable bunch of sailors in the world.
“We were very sorry to have to cancel trials, and our events in May and June. We know how hard you all train all year and look forward to being out on the water with your friends in particular in the summer months.
“We don’t know when we will be able to all get back out sailing. But we know that when we do it will be amazing. Families and friends from around the country and indeed the world will connect again ... we will laugh, rig, race and have lots of fun both on and off the water.
“We would also like to say a special word of thanks to all the people working hard in the front line services who are keeping us safe in these unprecedented times.”
The IODAI also expressed its hope that members “remain safe as we navigate these uncharted waters together”.
