Sail Canada bids farewell to high performance skiff coach, Krzysztof Kierkowski

Kingston, January 16, 2025 – Sail Canada announces the departure of Krzysztof Kierkowski from Sail Canada and the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic.

Employed at the CSI Atlantic as a double-handed expert since 2018, Krzysztof has guided the Canadian 49er/FX program over the past seven years. His technical knowledge combined with his experience as a two-time Olympian for Poland (2004, 2008) in the 49er class has made him an integral part of Sail Canada’s High-Performance staff. Over his time with Sail Canada, Krzysztof has made a huge impact on the performance of the Canadian skiff classes, including a multitude of best finishes for Canadians at Olympic, World and International competitions.

“This decision was not made lightly, as my time in Canada has been both rewarding and professionally fulfilling”, said Krzysztof Kierkowski. “I deeply appreciate the opportunities I have had to contribute to the organization’s mission and work with such a dedicated team, and I would like to thank Sail Canada and CSI Atlantic. However, after careful consideration, I have decided to pursue new opportunities that align with my personal and professional goals.”

“I want to thank Krzysztof for all of his hard work and dedication to advancing high performance sailing in Canada”, said Sail Canada CEO, Ryan Kelly. “His professionalism and systematic approach had a huge impact on the Canadian Sailing Team, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Sail Canada will miss Krzysztof’s expertise and contributions to our team. We are currently evaluating the future needs of the high-performance program and will be recruiting for the team in the near future.”

About Sail Canada
Established in 1931, Sail Canada is the national governing body for the sport of sailing in the country. Sail Canada is a leading international sailing nation, proud of its world class athletes, lifelong participants and inclusive culture. The organization and its members are committed to excellence by developing and training its leaders, athletes, sailors, instructors, coaches and officials. With the valued support from our partners, the Provincial Sailing Associations and our member clubs, schools, organizations and stakeholders, sailing is promoted in all its forms. By setting standards and delivering programs from home pond to podium for Canadians of all ages and abilities, from dinghies to keelboats, cruising to navigation, windsurfing to powerboating and accessible sailing, Sail Canada sets sail for all, sail to win and sail for life.

A sport in the Olympic program since the first Games in 1896, except in 1904, the pursuit of success in these Games is what fuels the focus of Sail Canada as Canadian athletes have so far achieved nine Olympic and five Paralympic medals.