Martin Payne, Jan Bakker and Dominic Bakker winner’s of Cazaux with PRO Yves Leglise..
With World Championship qualifying points available for the French Fleet, it was always going to be a hard fought event for the 21 boat fleet that arrived on Lac Cazaux this weekend. With three top quality visiting teams the regatta was set for some exciting racing, all that was required was wind……….
At the end of the 4 days the PRO Yves Leglise managed some how to complete 5 races despite losing a full day on Thursday through lack of wind…. The overall winners were GBR 769 HOMBRE’ (Yours truly) with Jan Bakker and his son Dominic… It was a tough series and 2nd placed overall Luc Pillot helming FRA 386 “Lady Jane” crewed by Jean Claude Danet and Christian Deredec were always choosing the correct side of the beats and sailing fast down wind. Likewise FRA 396 “Legend” helmed by Remy Arnaud and crewed by his Son Henry and Pascal Civel, sailed some super races showing great speed on the flat water and always looked purposeful in taking 3rd overall.
Yes for sure fellow sailors both Luc and Remy will be among the favourites in La Rochelle next June. So will FRA 405 helmed by Philippe Presti who finished 5th overall, despite an OCS in race one, he too will be a “Force” in La Rochelle………. Lets face it, as Philippe was one of the coaches on the winning America’s Cup “Team Oracle” he must be a challenger for the World Title…. The French Fleet look hot and are sailing fast……….. 4th Place overall were our “Petticows” owner, Tim Tavinor, crewed by Thomas and Nicola Wilton….
In closing a very special mention must go to the Helpers and Volunteers of Cazaux.. With a variety of top food from the region served every night, accompanied by a variety of local wines, it was, as usual a most sociable and fun regatta to be part of. It is a small club with a “Big” heart and I urge you all to support this event next year to join in the fun & festivities at this late stage of the year…
Higher, Faster, Longer………. Stavros. (GBR 769).