Robert Scheidt: “Atlanta 1996 was a turning point in my life and career”
As the final chapter of ILCA’s 30 Years of Olympic ILCA Sailing series, there is no more fitting voice than that of Robert Scheidt — the Brazilian sailor who won the very first Olympic gold medal in the Laser class on 31 July 1996, exactly 30 years ago today.
Santiago Lange: “Atlanta 1996 taught me how to do the next ones”
As part of ILCA’s 30 Years of Olympic ILCA Sailing series, Argentine sailor Santiago Lange reflects on his Laser class debut at Atlanta 1996. Thirty years on, the seven-time Olympian and Rio 2016 gold medallist looks back on the experience that set him on the path to one of the most remarkable careers in Olympic sailing history.
Mark Lyttle: Olympic Memories and a New Chapter as ILCA President
As part of ILCA’s 30 Years of Olympic ILCA Sailing series, Irish sailor Mark Lyttle reflects on his Olympic debut at Atlanta 1996. Thirty years on, Lyttle remains deeply connected to the class — both as an active Masters competitor and now as President of the ILCA Class Association.
Francesco Bruni: “Atlanta 1996 was the beginning of my professional career”
Italian sailor Francesco Bruni reflects on his experience at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games — the first Olympic appearance of the ILCA (Laser) class — and how it marked the beginning of his professional sailing career.
Michael Blackburn: “Atlanta 1996 ignited my passion for the ILCA class”
Michael Blackburn reflects on the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, his first Olympic appearance in the ILCA class, and how that experience shaped a career that led to Olympic medals and a leading coaching legacy in modern sailing.
The Countdown is On: 30 Years of Olympic ILCA Sailing
The countdown is on to 30 Years of Olympic ILCA Sailing. This summer, we celebrate the class’s Olympic journey from Atlanta 1996 to today, with stories, memories and special content across our channels.
