Sailing is undoubtedly one of our forte. This reality has been proved repeatedly over the years at various level of competition by different sailors. But over the past weekend, at the HSBC National Dinghy Championships, a particular name, once again, conquered the racing fleet - Thomas Zammit Tabona.

The 14-year-old attained the title of national champion after he had also won the title last year. This victory will definitely give Zammit Tabona psychological strength as he prepares for his forthcoming challenge, the Euromed Championship next week, where he will also be the defending champion.

The dinghy championships were organised by the Malta Sailing Federation. Racing was held at Mellieħa Bay where the Adira Sailing Centre was the official Race HQ.

Zammit Tabona's victory was far from an easy ride though. In fact, at the end Ella Fleri Soler had the same points. But, Zammit Tabona broke the tie as he had more first positions to his credit. Both youngsters are members of the Young Sailors Club.

In the Optimist Cadet Class, Thomas Bonello Ghio had an excellent weekend of racing. In Laser Standard, the Joe Borg Costanzi Trophy was awarded to Zak Borg.

The Malta Young Sailors Club were presented with a trophy for being the team with most sailors on the water, an award they have now won for the last seven years.

Results

Optimist Open: 1. T. Zammit Tabona 9; 2. E. Fleri Soler 9; 3. A. Fenech 15.

Optimist Cadet: 1. T. Bonello Ghio 25; 2. K. Miggiani 28; 3. A. Esposito 45.

Laser Standard: 1. Z. Borg 7; 2. P. Sahlberg 12; 3. C. Podesta 14.

Laser Radial: 1. A. Agius Delicata 7; 2. M. Farrugia 8; 3. M. Camilleri 16.

Handicap Class: 1. J. Portanier; 2. N. Fenech; 3. D. Fenech.

Laser 4.7: 1. D. Dalli; 2. D. Attard.

Hobie Cats: 1. M. Guzman/D. Goodman; 2. J. Cross/M. Anastasi; 3. P. Ellul/A. Spiteri.

Novices: 1. J. Busuttil; 2. Z. Zammit; 3. N. Manduca.