The 2017 season of the German Sailing Bundesliga marked a significant milestone in the evolution of club sailing in Germany. With the introduction of four new regional leagues and the launch of the Deutsche Segel-Liga Cup (DSL-Pokal), the league underwent major restructuring to enable broader participation from over 100 sailing clubs nationwide. This expansion significantly boosted the visibility and reach of sailing as a competitive sport in Germany.
As the league’s official photographer, I had the privilege of capturing the season’s excitement at various regatta venues, including Prien am Chiemsee, Lindau, Kiel, Travemünde, Glücksburg, and the grand finale in Berlin. My imagery was featured across numerous media outlets and played a key role in conveying the intensity and emotion of club-level sailing to a wider audience.
A particular focus throughout the season was the visibility of title sponsor Audi. Through deliberate image composition and the integration of Audi branding into the visual narrative, the brand’s presence was effectively highlighted. Close collaboration with Audi allowed me to visually showcase the connection between elite sport and premium branding.
The 2017 season concluded with the Norddeutscher Regatta Verein (NRV) claiming their third national title, triumphing in the final showdown on Berlin’s Wannsee. These sporting achievements, along with the league’s growing media footprint, are powerfully reflected in my Best-of portfolio – a visual journey through the highlights and diversity of a remarkable season.
The 2017 Deutsche Segel-Bundesliga was not only a sporting success but also a pivotal step in the professionalization and popularization of competitive sailing in Germany. It was an honor to be part of this journey as a photographer, capturing the moments and stories behind the races.
