Salinas Yacht Club welcomed 180 sailors from 14 countries to the Optimist South American Championship on September 6-13, 2025. From the moment they arrived, the young teams enjoyed activities specially prepared to make them feel at home: conditioning with the Natural Method, games, sports afternoons on our courts, and even humpback whale watching—plus lots of fun competition.

The event began with an emotional opening ceremony with flags and national anthems from participating countries. Then came the days of pure action on the water:

• Day 1 & 2: The first races marked the start of the championship, with the Yellow, Blue and Red fleets showcasing their talent and passion for sailing.
• Day 3 & 4: The excitement grew with intense races and results that placed Brazil as a dominant force on the podium, with standout sailing by Manuel Bragança, Arthur Lamin, and Felipe Hutzle.
• Final Day: Races 9 and 10 closed an unforgettable week of competition, with every country giving their all on the water and celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship.

The event concluded with a closing night on Friday, September 12, at the club’s poolside area. In the presence of directors, coaches, parents, and delegations, certificates were awarded, special recognitions were given, and the official handover of the championship to Uruguay, host of the next South American Championship, took place.

2025 Champions
Nations Cup – Team Racing
WINNER Puerto Rico 1
SECOND United States 1
THIRD United States 2

South American Team Racing Championship
WINNER Brazil 1
SECOND Argentina 1
THIRD Argentina 2

Individual Categories
WINNER Manuel Bragança (BRA) – 2025 South American Champion & Overall Champion
SECOND Arthur Lamin (BRA)
THIRD Felipe Hutzler (BRA)

Top Girls
WINNER Inés Méndez Larminaux (PUR)
SECOND Lara Candemil (BRA) – Best South American
THIRD Tara Maliah (HKG)

Bronze Fleet
WINNER Jaden García Reyes (PUR)
SECOND Dylan Thomley (USA)
THIRD Josefina Palao (PER)

Silver Fleet
WINNER Sofía Carrillo (PER)
SECOND Sergio Menegasso (BRA)
THIRD Simón Katz (ARG)