Ice and snow sailing European Championship on Lake Balaton in Hungary

© mauritius images GmbH/Alamy Stock Phot

Wind powered ice racing. Ice and snow sailing European Championship on Lake Balaton in Hungary

January 30, 2023 is the opening day of the WISSA Ice and Snow Sailing World Championships, which takes place this year in Latvia. The sport dates back to the 17th century, when Dutch travelers used vessels on blades to traverse frozen waterways. Today ice boating, also known as ice sailing, is enjoyed as a recreational and competitive activity using a variety of boats, boards, skates, and kites. These world championships, which fall under the broader umbrella of windsurfing competitions, have been held since 1980. Good luck to all the competitors out there competing for fame and glory on the windswept ice!