Miami deemed unsafe for Canadian trials

The Sail Canada Olympic Selection Committee recently informed the Canadian Sailing Team and the Canadian Development Squad that the second and final leg of the Olympic trials has been changed.

The original selection for the Laser Radial, 49er, 49erfx, and RSX Women had been scheduled for the 2021 Miami OCR (January 21-24) has now been moved to the 2021 Princess Sofia regatta (March 26-April 3). Due to the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19 in Miami and the potential risk to athletes, the Spanish event proved to be the safer alternative for sailors.

“Our athletes have been working hard at our secured training site in Comox, British Columbia and we were all excited to complete the trials this January, allowing the athletes to focus on training and preparing for the Olympics,” explained Mike Milner, Sail Canada High-Performance Director.

“Unfortunately, at this time, after consultation with the Canadian Olympic Committee and with medical experts we were advised that Miami would not be a safe place for our athletes and support teams with COVID-19 proliferating throughout Florida and specifically in Miami Dade county.

“While many of our athletes are disappointed, Sail Canada will always put the health and safety of our athletes and staff first.”

For more information on the Canadian Olympic trials and lead up to the games, contact Mike Milner at mike@sailing.ca.

Source: Sail Canada