iQFOiL LAST CHANCE QUALIFIER: PERFECT START TO THE FINAL ROAD TO WEYMOUTH
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Maziarka and Smith take the early leads after four races in ideal Maloja conditions at Vanora Engadinwind
Silvaplana, Switzerland – August 24, 2026 – The 2026 iQFOiL Last Chance Qualifier officially got underway today as part of the Vanora Engadinwind, giving sailors one final opportunity to secure their place at the upcoming iQFOiL Senior World Championships in Weymouth.
Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Swiss Alps, Lake Silvaplana once again delivered the conditions it is famous for. With registration completed in the morning, competitors wasted no time getting on the water as the legendary Maloja thermal breeze arrived, providing ideal racing conditions for the opening day of competition.
The Men's fleet immediately demonstrated the depth of talent assembled in Silvaplana. Four races produced four different winners, highlighting just how closely matched the fleet is. Finley Evans claimed victory in the opening race before Loïc Huguenin took the second. Magne Iversen added his name to the winners' list in Race 3, while Michał Maziarka closed the day with victory in the final race.
With no sailor able to dominate outright, consistency proved to be the deciding factor. Poland's Michał Maziarka put together the most complete series of the day to finish as the overnight leader heading into Tuesday's racing.
In the Women's fleet, Abi Smith enjoyed an excellent opening day to take the provisional overall lead after four races, putting herself in a strong position as the qualification battle begins.
The opening day concluded ashore with the Official Opening Ceremony, welcoming competitors and celebrating another international gathering of the iQFOiL community in the Engadin.
With an excellent weather forecast still ahead, the stage is set for another exciting day of racing as sailors continue their fight for the remaining places at the 2026 iQFOiL Senior World Championships.
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