Nicosia: Cypriot sailing champion Pavlos Kontides began his preparations for the 2026 season in the best possible way, claiming the gold medal at a training camp held in Split, Croatia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kontides expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “The camp ended in the best way possible, with the Strozanac Cup, an event that included all sailors training in Split as well as young athletes preparing for the U21 European Championships.” He also extended his best wishes to the Cypriot sailors competing at the upcoming continental event.
The two-time Olympic silver medallist dominated the regatta, winning all three races that counted towards the event’s results. All three were held on the same day, as strong winds had prevented racing on the opening day.
Kontides has been in Split since September 23, using the camp to test various aspects of his training both at sea and on land. “The preparation went really well ahead of the new season, both in the gym and on the water. I feel very comfortable in the boat. We had a wide range of conditions, from strong winds to light breeze, and worked on many different elements,” he noted.
Following the camp, the Limassol Nautical Club sailor returned to Cyprus for a few days of rest with his family before resuming training. He will be back in Split in early November for another camp, followed by a trip to Vilamoura, Portugal, where he will take part in a regatta from November 27 to 30.
“There will be stronger competition in Vilamoura, and that event will be the last big test of the year, a warm-up for 2026,” Kontides concluded.