Estonian Ice Sailing Cup Series Stage 3
by Darius Gerasimavicius 8 Feb 22:04 PST
7-8 February 2026
Estonian Ice Sailing Cup Series Stage 3 © Darius Gerasimavicius
Pärnu - The Epicentre of Baltic Ice Sailing
On February 7-8, the third stage of the Estonian Ice Sailing Cup Series (Jääpurjetamise Eesti karikasarja III etapp) took place in Estonia, on Pärnu Bay, in the Tahkuranna area. The event became one of the most prominent ice sailing competitions of the season in the Baltic region.
Bringing together the strongest sailors from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, both in terms of fleet size and sporting level, the regatta can confidently be described as an unofficial Baltic Ice Sailing Championship.
In total, 49 competitors took part, racing in the main international ice sailing classes - DN, Ice Optimist, and Monotype XV, as well as the DN Junior category. Particularly encouraging was the strong youth participation, clearly reflecting the consistent and long-term development of ice sailing across the region.
The event was exceptionally well organized. The Race Committee operated at a very high professional level, providing competitors with fast, clear, and precise information throughout the event. Decisions were taken promptly and efficiently, ensuring smooth, safe, and fair racing conditions for all participants.
Ice and Wind Conditions
On Pärnu Bay, sailors were greeted by approximately 40 cm of thick, extremely hard and reliable Baltic ice. In some areas, the surface was covered by a thin, soft layer of snow resembling oat flakes - not sharp, but demanding precise runner preparation, fine balance, and clean sailing lines.
On the first day, a north-easterly wind reaching up to 11 knots provided conditions for fast and dynamic racing. On the second day, the wind became more variable and lighter, around 8-10 knots, while the minimal snow cover turned the course more technical, further emphasizing tactical thinking and decision-making.
DN Class - The International Benchmark
The DN class, regarded as the most prestigious and important international ice sailing class, delivered racing of the highest level in Pärnu. The stage was convincingly won by Rasmus Maalinn (Pärnu Jahtklubi) - the 2025 European Champion, who once again proved extremely difficult to beat.
Second place in DN went to Eigo Helimets (Kalevi Jahtklubi), while Hardi Laurits (Haapsalu Jahtklubi) finished third. A total of 23 sailors competed in the DN fleet.
DN Women
The special award for the best female DN sailor was claimed by Eva Mägi (Saaremaa Merispordi Selts). After her victories at Junior World and European Championships in the Ice Optimist class, Eva successfully debuted in the DN fleet.
Lithuania was represented by Auguste Žukauskaite, who gained valuable experience racing in extreme conditions.
DN Junior - Estonia's Next Generation
The DN Junior category was dominated by young Estonian sailors. The stage victory went to Andrias Sepp, followed by Jorgen Kuivonen and Angus Aarna Ant.
Ice Optimist - The Foundation of Youth Ice Sailing
The Ice Optimist class represents the first step into ice sailing for the youngest athletes. Historically, the Ice Optimist class was born in Estonia in 1978, based on scaled-down DN design principles.
After 10 races, the Ice Optimist competition in Pärnu was won by Uku Melnits. Second place went to Johanna Kuhi-Thalfeldt, while Lukas Jürioja finished third.
Lithuanian sailor Mykolas Leipus (ESSC-NBA "Poseidonas") finished 10th overall, repeatedly sailing inside the top five.
Greta Baublyte represented Lithuania in the girls' category, gaining her first international experience.
Monotype XV - A Classic Tactical Battle
The Monotype XV class featured close racing between three teams. Winners were Joosep Laus / Karl Lember, followed by Mihkel Kosk / Andrus Padu and Indrek Aavik / Siim Valgre.
International Context
Estonia demonstrated a very high sporting level across all classes. Latvian sailors Gatis Graudums and Artis Berzinš contributed significantly to the competitive quality of the event.
All Lithuanian sailors represented the ESSC-NBA "Poseidonas" club. The team was coached by Darius Gerasimavicius, who also serves as IDNIYRA Europe Youth Manager. Lithuanian team leader Antanas Gerasimavicius tested new technical solutions, including Zdzislaw Prot masts and Finnish runners.
Overall Results:
Looking Ahead
The ice sailing season continues with DN World and European Championships in Poland (February 14-21), the Monotype XV European Championship, and the Nordic Ice Optimist Meeting in Sweden on March 7-8.