The 11th India International Youth Sailing Championship (IIR) 2026, India’s longest-running youth sailing regatta, commenced in Chennai. Scheduled from January 4 to 10 at the Chennai Port, the championship, organized by the Tamil Nadu Sailing Association (TNSA), will see 117 sailors from 13 nations competing in various youth classes.
Dr. Atulya Misra and Thiru. J. Meganatha Reddy led the press conference, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s sailing prowess. They announced the establishment of two advanced sailing Centres of Excellence in Chennai and Ramanathapuram to promote the sport. The event, known for nurturing young talent, has produced international stars like Isaac McHardy and Irish champions Sean Waddilove and Paddy Crosbie.
The championship’s global impact was underscored by Irish sailing coach Thomas Chaix, who described the IIR as a memorable experience for sailors and coaches alike. The races will be broadcast live on official YouTube channels, offering a global audience the chance to witness the competition firsthand.
