OK Dinghy Thailand Open Nationals 2026
by Neil Semple 10 Feb 18:57 PST
7-9 February 2026
Perfect conditions, all day every day. OK Dinghy Thailand Open Nationals 2026 © RVYC
The eleven-strong fleet started the first race of the regatta in robust wind. Apple Asawawatanaporn (THA) said “I think the wind was in the mid-teens coming in consistently from the south west.”
Indeed, the winds were so strong for some competitors that three boats had retired by the time of the third and final race of the first day. But for those that managed to survive the conditions, there was close racing upwind and some great waves to surf downwind providing some passing lanes. Greg Florkow (THA) said “I rode one wave, then another, then a third and I wondered if it would continue or veer out of control”.
Nick Craig (GBR) finished the day in the lead, with Morten Jakobsen (THA) and Chris Caldecoat (THA) snapping at his heels.
Day 2 took off in even stronger breeze, and with an out-going current to contend with on the start line. Many sailors commented that the downwind legs were "very exciting", with plenty of waves to ride and some near capsizes avoided. The unflappable Dane, Morten Jacobsen, described the conditions as "fantastic! Thailand and dinghies at their joint best."
The RO laid a slightly shorter windward leeward course than on the previous day as he had five races in mind - in the end, four races were sailed, although several competitors thought that three were quite enough and went back to the beach accordingly!
Last day: medium winds from the southwest. Whilst the first warning signal on day one was a relatively sedate 1400, and on day two 1200, the comparatively early start of 11.00 elicited a few light hearted grumbles from some of the fleet. The RO laid an even shorter windward leeward course than on day two, resulting in some congestion at the rounding marks and lots of shouting. Four races were completed on day three.
Novice OK Dinghy sailor Lucas Collin (FRA) improved during the regatta due to some tips from some of the leaders and indicated enthusiasm for the OK Dinghy Worlds due to be held at the Royal Varuna Yacht Club in February 2027. Morten Jakobsen extended thanks to European OK sailors who had donated equipment, including sails, to the Thai charter fleet.
The final results were:
1. Nick Craig (GBR)
2. Morten Jakobsen (THA)
3. Chris Caldecoat(THA)
4. Lucas Collin (FRA)
First female was Apple Asawawatanaporn (THA).
For 2027, the plan will be to hold the same two events for OK’s immediately prior to the OK Worlds, 19-26 Feb 2027. Exact dates etc will follow, but if sailors get their boats early to Thailand before the Worlds, there will be plenty of events to sail. One thing is certain: participants Gautam Dutte, Anthony and Nick Craig will be back in 2027. There is also a demand for a training camp in Thailand late 2026, if charter boats can again be available. OK Thailand Secretary Morten Jacobsen is expecting a big turnout. "We have already received expressions of interest from a large number of overseas competitors in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK," he said. "It's possible that we could 100 boats here next February."
Where dinghy sailing is concerned, what's not to like in Thailand? Classic blue skies, warm water, t-shirts and shorts sailing (really) off a beach in front of a first class club (Royal Varuna Yacht Club). Accommodation prices are very reasonable, and the cold beer is practically a give-away. February in UK and Europe? Don't even ask. Get a slot now - click the link 2027.okworlds.org