Dutch pro sailor, Willemijn Offerman, joins Clean Sailors as Ambassador
Dutch pro sailor, Willemijn Offerman, is the latest champion sailor to join Clean Sailors as an Ambassador.
Willemijn, currently beginning the World Championships in the Nacra 17 alongside fellow Clean Sailors Ambassador, Scipio Houtman, is also a helm on the JAJO Team Dutchsail America’s Cup woman’s team, as well as an Optimist coach.
"Sailing is a beautiful sport. It allows you to harness the power of the wind, gliding quietly and smoothly across the water without disturbing marine life, while enjoying the sense of freedom it brings" says Willemijn.
"However, the experience can be ruined by the sight of floating waste, much of which washes ashore at the slipway. As a dinghy sailor, you often find yourself walking through it, which is a reality that underscores the urgency of the situation. We need to address the existing pollution and, more importantly, find sustainable ways to enjoy life. Clean Sailors is tackling this issue from multiple angles, which is why I'm proud to be one of their ambassadors and contribute in any way I can."
Willemijn was almost born on a boat. As a baby, she joined her parents and older brother on their boat, where her father created a special seat so she could watch just over the edge and see the waves pass by. The stronger the wind, the steeper the waves, the bigger the smile on her face.
By age four, Willemijn joined her brother in the front of an Optimist. At the age of six, she began competitive sailing, first at her local club in Vinkeveen and later on a national level. She always dreamed of sailing with her brother again. When he outgrew the Optimist, they transitioned to the RS Feva, where they sailed their first international competition together.
Next, they moved on to the 29er, where they were guided by former Olympian Alex Breuseker. Alex helped transform her into a top athlete and sparked her Olympic ambitions. The team then transitioned to the 49erFX. In the first year, they excelled so much that she was invited to train full-time with the Watersportverbond, she seized this opportunity.
After four years of sailing the FX and acting as a sparring partner for the Olympic team, Willemijn experienced a burnout. After a long recovery with much personal development, she returned to the boat, this time sailing the foiling Nacra17 with Scipio Houtman. Foiling had always been a hobby, and now she embraced the opportunity to pursue it full-time.
Willemijn is also one of the helms of the JAJO Team Dutchsail America’s Cup woman’s team. In addition, she shares her knowledge by coaching young Optimist sailors.
Willemijn Offerman' sailing profile
2023 - 10th at European championship Nacra17
2021 - Silver at Youth World championship FX
2019 - Youth European champion FX
2019 - Silver Dutch championship FX
2019 - Gold at North Sea regatta FX
2019 - Silver at Kieler Woche FX
2018/ 2019 - Bronze at Youth World championship FX