Continuing the theme of strong wind racing, which had filled through the race track each day, the finale was no different. The weather pushed the young teams to the extremes, with squally breeze and a rough sea delivering challenging and exciting conditions.

Each of the three participating nations - Russia, Italy and France - fielded two teams, with the race track utimately dominated by the Italians and French. In the 420 men, Yvon Larnicol/Colin Loirat (FRA) won, with Andrea Totis/Marco Zanni (ITA) in second and Justin Baradat/Thomas Andre (FRA) in third. Same nations, just slightly different order in the women, with Italy's JanaGermani/Sara Zuppin take the honours, chased by Lea Sibertin Blanc/Jessie Kampman (FRA) and Alexandra Stalder/Silvia Speri (ITA).

“Indeed, we were very unlucky to have such weather conditions, because the wind was either so light that it was impossible to hold the races, or it was too strong and it became dangerous, creating a real test of skills and equipment. Young athletes just cannot handle such a situation. The first day we had two great race stages and then the natural elements prevented us from racing on the second day. The wind was just too powerful like it is now. It would not have been sport but a real test of survival both for athletes and the equipment. I do not believe that this is what children need. I think we will take this into account and will draw conclusions for the next stages. We have already discussed the situation with the team-leaders and we will introduce certain restrictions on wind force because it was real stress for the children,” said Anastasia Chernova, chief coach of the youth national team at the end of the event.

The fifth stage of the International Youth Regatta in St. Petersburg ended with a prize-giving ceremony in the Constantin Place. Teams received congratulations from Vladimir Silkin and Jean-Pierre Champion, Presidents of the Sailing Federations of Russia and France, Francesco Ettore, Vice-President of the Sailing Federation of Italy, and Sergey Eremin, Head of the State Complex of the Palace of Congresses. Celebrations for all, followed by a night tour through St Petersburg.

The next edition of the International Youth Cup will be held in France during October 2016.