The world’s best sailors converged on Fremantle today for the start of the Perth 2011 International Sailing Federation (ISAF) World Championships which will run until 18 December.

The Sailing World Championships will see 1200 sailors and 850 boats from almost 80 nations competing not only for world championship glory but also a spot at the London 2012 Olympics.

Minister for Sport Mark Arbib, Member for Brand Gary Gray and Member for Fremantle Melissa Parke welcomed everyone involved in the championships and wished them the best of luck for the event.

“The Australian Government is a proud supporter of the World Championships providing $8.6 million to support the event,” Senator Arbib said.

“The World Championships is also the key qualification event for sailing at the London 2012 Olympic Games with 75 per cent of places at London being decided here.  This will make for some fierce and entertaining competition.”

Mr Gray said hosting the World Championships was a huge coup for Western Australia and yet another example of a successful major sporting event being held in Australia.

“Everyone who lives in Western Australia is aware of its beauty and I am glad that the world’s top sailors will get to experience some of the world’s best sailing conditions in Fremantle,” Mr Gray said.

“There are more than 25 international and national broadcasters telecasting the event around the world highlighting the beauty of Fremantle and West Australian Coastline.”

Ms Parke said the World Championships would also see Esplanade Park become home to the 2011 World Village – the central location for all sailing venues and activities of the World Championships.

“The Esplanade is also the focus of the Worlds Festival, a major event in itself, with more than 250 free activities throughout the 16-day programme,” Ms Parke said.

“A main stage and large video screens will keep visitors up-to-date with the sailing action, while surrounding the stage will be a range of family entertainment, food stalls, exhibitions, children’s activities and demonstrations relating to sailing and other sports.

“I wish all competitors, volunteers, officials and the organisers all the very best in what is sure to be a very successful and exciting event.”