The Cyprus squad is in rigorous training for the SAIL FIRST ISAF Youth Sailing World Championship, taking place in Limassol between the 13th to 20th of July 2013 (in the sea area of the Sailing Center of the Cyprus Sports Organization  in the municipal boundaries of Ayios. Tychonas). This international event will attract 350 athletes from 61 countries.

The young Cypriot sailors are well aware that they have a very challenging task ahead of them, yet, the benefit of knowing the Cyprus waters, will act as an added incentive to do their best for their island. What’s more, they have Olympic medalist Pavlos Kontides as an amazing inspiration tool and role model. Kontides is a two-time winner in these games in Canada (2007) and in Denmark (2008).

Commenting on the Cyprus sailors’ participation, Kontides says:

“I see the SAIL FIRST ISAF Youth Sailing World Championship as an Olympiad for the young sailors. This is an incredible opportunity for Cyprus as the games take place in Limassol- our sea. Sailors and event guests will experience sailing and will get a taste of the bigger games- the Olympiad- as the event format is like an Olympiad. I would like to wish all Cypriot sailors the very best and may they make us all proud.” 

Onisiforos Neofytou, featured in the photo and video, was born in April 1998, and is a squad member of the Famagusta Nautical Club. The talented aspiring sailor, who will compete in class SL16, recently first place in the "Youth Island Games" in Corsica between May 22 to 25.

 “The fact that the event will take place in our island, is a big opportunity for the entire team. We know the sea water very well and this will act as an advantage compared to athletes coming from abroad. We just have to hope for the very best”, says Onisiforos Neofytou.