Hi Campers, as I settle in and start to enjoy the beautiful weather in Portugal, more and more Dragons are arriving through the security gates of the Yacht Clube de Naval, Cascais having made the long journey across France, Spain and Portugal to arrive at HQ (Headquarters of Portugal’s Dragon Fleet)…. Boats from Russia, Denmark, Sweden, UK, Germany and Ireland are now here to supplement the strong Portuguese Fleet in the run up to the next Grade 1 event, The Juan Carlos Trophy, 31st March to 3rd April. With between 35 – 40 boats expected it should be a fantastic event…
But before that about 25 of the really enthusiastic teams will compete this weekend in the 5th Cascais Winter Series Regatta, 18th to 20th March. The event begins on Friday with two races, followed by three races on Saturday, then again two races on Sunday. This 7 race series gives sailors the perfect opportunity to prepare for the “Big” Grade 1 event in two weeks time. Having won the Juan Carlos Trophy on two previous occasions, I know how sought after and important this event is on the Dragon calendar and we hope this year will see even more exciting racing with a really large, competitive fleet..
Next week we also have the Italian Championship in San Remo. With 54 boats attending last year I am sure the growing Italian Fleet expect to improve upon that number this year.. San Remo is a short distance over the French border from Cannes and the wonderful picturesque town renown for it’s flowers, wine, tourism and fantastic sailing conditions will not disappoint this year…… Be there!
So Campers you have such amazing choices to make, do you go for the fresh fish meals washed down by some delicious red wine of the region in the many wonderful restaurants of Portugal. Or would you prefer the local Mediterranean Muscle’s with a cream and Italian white wine sauce………
Higher, Faster, Longer, (Starving)………….. Stavros.