Whilst some parts of the World are seeing terrible destruction, devastation and an every more worrying state of play in Libya, 20 very lucky and fortunate Dragon Teams were enjoying another excellent sailing day in Portugal. The experienced Clube Naval de Cascais race officer kept the teams from 8 countries ashore until the predicted North Westerly wind from around 315 degrees arrived at 1.00pm. The boats were then efficiently towed, from the sheltered club harbour, two miles out to one of the most perfect sailing courses in Europe. Sun, numerous dolphins, 10-14kts of wind and gentle rolling waves were the order of the day, as the sailors completed the 3 races which saw 3 different winners.
In race 1 RUS 96 helmed by Viacheslay Varnachkin rounded the windward mark alongside NOR 282 helmed by Eeva Saukkonen, as they both hoisted spinnakers NOR 282 opted to gybe whilst RUS 96 continued with a bear-away-set.. The gybe was to prove costly as RUS 96 continued on to win the race, whilst NOR 282 slipped back to 5th. In race 2 SWE 356 helmed by Stefan Winberg chose an excellent upwind course to lead at the first mark and was never challenged. RUS 69 helmed by Olga White must have watched Stefan carefully because she repeated his “Middle-of-the-Course” approach in race 3 which she won in style after being adjudge OCS in race 2… So 3 great races and 3 different winners….
With another 3 races planned for today no one can relax as one small mistake can prove very costly. But a certain Russian gentleman in Paris must be pleased to see his RUS 96 boat leading overall as he competes in a some exotic car rally, yes Mikhail Muratov decided to take a break from sailing after winning the last series here… But his boat continues the good work, sailed brilliantly by the Murka crew. Mikhail will be back for the important Grade 1 event in two weeks time….
Higher, Faster, Longer….. Stavros. (NOR 282).