Zvonko Jelacic Wins IOM World Championships in Australia

The International One Metre (IOM) World Championships in Gladstone, Australia, featured a week of intense competition and thrilling races from 20-28 October 2024. Zvonko Jelacic of Croatia emerged as the champion, demonstrating exceptional skill and resilience in a closely contested regatta that kept audiences captivated.

Alex Scapens on day 4 of the International One Metre World Championships in Gladstone, Australia © Nick Lindsley

An Intense Duel Between Jelacic and Vickers

By the third day, the spotlight was on Zvonko Jelacic and Ian Vickers of New Zealand. The two sailors alternated positions at the top, with the gap between them shifting as the regatta unfolded. Entering the final race, just one point separated them, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

In the final race, Vickers trailed Jelacic by seven points. They began the race side by side, but Vickers caught an early left shift, gaining an advantage at the first mark. Jelacic, positioned further back in the fleet, pushed hard to make up ground. As they neared the finish, Sean Fidler of the US had taken the lead, with Vickers in second and Jelacic securing eighth. Despite the tight race, Jelacic’s consistent performance throughout the event earned him the overall championship.

Strong Performances and Tight Contests

France’s Alexis Carre, who maintained a strong performance throughout the event, faced a tough final day but managed to clinch third place overall. Fellow French sailor Xavier Liger had a strong showing, moving into fourth place after a solid day on the water, narrowly surpassing Peter Feldman from the US, who excelled throughout the day but faced difficulties in the final race.

A Historic Event for Gladstone

The 2024 IOM World Championships will be remembered as a milestone for the City of Gladstone, hosting its first-ever international event. The city successfully delivered a top-tier regatta, with the local community showing strong support. The event’s live stream drew a global audience, allowing sailing fans worldwide to enjoy the competition.

Grant Gooper, Chairman of the World Working Group, expressed his pride: “I couldn't be any prouder that a small regional city was able to put on a world-class event.” This successful championship reinforces Gladstone’s standing in the sailing community and paves the way for future international competitions.

Celebrating the Competitors

Congratulations to Zvonko Jelacic on his outstanding victory and to all the sailors for their fierce competition throughout the week. The regatta showcased the skill, determination, and sportsmanship that define the IOM community.

Watch the Action Again

Missed the excitement or want to revisit the races? You can watch the entire event replay on YouTube. Visit www.iomworlds.com for the live stream and detailed results.

Get Ready for Your Next Regatta

Inspired by the IOM World Championships? Ensure you’re prepared for your next competition with the right gear. From durable sails to advanced equipment, having the right tools can make all the difference in your performance on the water.