
Garda Optimist Academy
- From € 300 €
- Minimum duration: 3 days
- Level: Intermediate, Advanced
Optimist Clinics 2026 at Campione Univela
Welcome to the 2026 Optimist Clinics at Campione Univela, organised in partnership with Garda Optimist Academy. Throughout the season, young sailors will have the opportunity to train on Lake Garda with experienced international coaches through focused three day clinics designed to improve technique, speed, tactics and racing awareness.
Campione del Garda offers a uniquely reliable training environment for Optimist sailors, with consistent wind, protected waters, efficient logistics and facilities designed for teams, athletes and families.
Confirmed Clinics for 2026
Optimist Clinic with Maurizio Bencic
Dates: 1 to 3 June 2026
Duration: 3 days
Maurizio Bencic will lead an intensive clinic focused on racing fundamentals, boat handling, starting technique and tactical decision making. This clinic is ideal for Optimist sailors who want to strengthen their overall performance and develop greater consistency on the race course.
Optimist Clinic with Simone Gesi
Dates: 4 to 6 June 2026
Duration: 3 days
Simone Gesi will guide sailors through a structured training programme dedicated to speed, manoeuvres, starts and competitive racing skills. The clinic is designed for athletes who want practical, high quality coaching in a demanding and motivating environment.
Optimist Clinic with Reka Karé
Dates: 31 August to 2 September 2026
Duration: 3 days
Reka Karé will deliver a clinic dedicated to refining technical skills, tactical thinking and race strategy. This training block is particularly suitable for sailors who want to sharpen specific areas of their preparation and approach competition with greater confidence.
Private Optimist Coaching Available All Season
In addition to our scheduled clinics, private lessons are always available with our New Zealand Optimist coach Jed Potbury.
Private coaching is a valuable option for sailors who want individual attention, targeted work on specific technical or tactical areas, extra preparation before a regatta, or a personalised training session during their stay at Campione del Garda.
Sessions can be arranged for individual sailors, small groups or teams, depending on availability and training goals.
Request private coaching with Jed Potbury
Why Train with Garda Optimist Academy at Campione Univela
Training at Campione Univela means working in one of the most recognised sailing venues on Lake Garda, with direct access to reliable wind conditions and an environment built around sailing performance.
Through Garda Optimist Academy, sailors benefit from:
- high level coaching from experienced international trainers
- focused three day clinics with practical on the water work
- excellent conditions for technical and tactical improvement
- supportive facilities for athletes, teams and accompanying families
- the possibility to combine clinics with accommodation and private coaching
How to Join
Each clinic has limited availability in order to maintain quality coaching and effective group work. Early booking is strongly recommended.
Detailed information for each clinic, including programme, accommodation options and booking instructions, is available in the dedicated clinic pages linked above.
For custom training solutions, team bookings or private coaching requests, please contact us directly.
Train with purpose. Grow with expert coaching. Experience Optimist sailing on Lake Garda with Garda Optimist Academy and Campione Univela.

















