The Final Test Event

Sailing is one of the few sports holding two Test Events, the first being in 2002, with the aim being to test the event infrastructure and organization to ensure an excellent event come the 2004 Olympic Regatta, next August.

Reflecting the procedures that will be implement at Games Time, this final rehearsal event is almost like the real thing. Today, sailors and team managers were confronted with the special features of Olympic Competition; boats are not only checked if they comply with the class rules, but also searched for explosives. Such are the security measures for the Olympic Games and therefore for this Test Event.

Registration and measurement started today and is well underway. The ISAF Officials are working with teams of very well trained volunteers, and for them as well this regatta is the final practice.

Image: ISAF Chief Measurer Jean Pierre Marmier inspecting the USA Yngling (Hannah SWETT) before weighing the hull. © ISAF

Sailors that attended last year’s event are impressed by the progress in the construction of the Olympic Sailing Centre. About 95% of the facility is ready and in use. Whilst there are rumours of delays in the preparations for other sports, there seems to be no such problems for the sport of sailing.

Image: Security checks are being undertaken on all vehicles entering the venue. © ISAF

Dimitris ALEVIZAKIS, the ATHENS 2004 Competition manager, commented: “By 1600 hours today, 365 sailors and coaches had already been processed through registration and accreditation, well ahead of schedule.”

Measurement and practice sailing will continue until 18 August, with the official practice race for all classes taking place on 19 August with the first official race scheduled to start at 1200 hours on 20 August.

Racing will continue until 28 August.

Image: The Boat Park. © ISAF