ERGO ahoy!

Photos: © Ekke Erben

From 4 to 7 June 2026, sailing enthusiasts from ERGO once again headed for the waters off Glücksburg on the Baltic coast for the ERGO Sail Challenge. The highlight was not only the series of regatta races on the Saturday, but also a varied supporting programme with excursions, a barbecue evening and plenty of chances to enjoy a cheerful weekend on and by the water.

When it was first held around 20 years ago, the ERGO Sail Challenge brought together colleagues from different ERGO locations who had never met before – many of whom have since become friends. The circle has steadily grown over the years. The shared enjoyment of sailing on the Baltic Sea at the start of summer has long since become a fixed anchor point, where seasoned athletes meet maritime first-timers to share an unforgettable weekend. Sailing experience is not a requirement for the ERGO Sail Challenge – everyone is welcome.

International and inclusive

For some, the event is the continuation of a cherished tradition; for others, it is an exciting premiere. Anyone who wanted to take part in 2026 had to be quick – places on the starting line were limited. This year, 66 participants between their early twenties and mid-sixties from various parts of the company were among the lucky ones on board. They included two colleagues from India. And, as in 2025, an inclusive crew once again put to sea, whose members were not only fully integrated on the water.

This is no coincidence, as inclusion, diversity and respectful interaction are all highly valued at ERGO. They are key elements of socially responsible behaviour which is reflected particularly clearly in sport. In 2026, the ERGO Sail Challenge once again proved to be an ideal example of how to break down barriers in a very straightforward way and strengthen the sense of community.

Drama on the water

The weather on the Baltic coast of Schleswig-Holstein also helped make this year’s event a success. In contrast to the rainy, gusty Friday, the regatta day delivered perfect sailing conditions. Nothing stood in the way of the five races in the Folkboat and HKB classes. As always, despite all the competitive spirit, fair play never fell by the wayside. A winner’s trophy is a wonderful thing – but in truth, everyone was a winner. You could see it in the happy faces of all the participants.

Team spirit – the secret of success

For many years now, Tanja Siemer has been organising and overseeing the ERGO Sail Challenge on behalf of ERGO Sports. For her, this team spirit is the secret of its success: “It’s fascinating to see how colleagues who have often never met before become a close-knit crew in such a short time, sometimes with no prior knowledge at all, and then go out and race a regatta together and have a great time.”

She was joined this year by ERGO Sports representative Insa Knust, who also ensured everything ran smoothly: “We’re also proud of our skippers. Six of them were with us for the first time this year – and one of them promptly sailed straight onto the podium. It’s thanks to their infectious enthusiasm that even complete newcomers are drawn into this fantastic team sport.”

A decisive share of the event’s success once again belonged to the volunteers from the Hanseatic Yachting School in Glücksburg, whose expertise and great dedication helped create a truly exceptional weekend. The DHH sailing instructors not only gave the theoretical introductions but were also on hand throughout to support participants with help and advice whenever needed.