Dominic and Olivier Bakker help Martin Payne power GBR 771 “Finito” to two race wins in Deauville yesterday, with winds from the South-West gusting 18 to 20 kts at times. The deep 2-3 metre waves also helping the fleet to surf, as the downwind legs became exciting and an opportunity to make substantial gains. It was a great day of sailing off this picturesque coast of this Northern Brittany Town.
Also having a superb day on the water was BEL 69 Michel van Cauwelaert, and NED 318 Gerard Laamens who battled it out for 2nd/3rd in both races. In race one it was BEL 69 who finished ahead, then in race 2 NED 318 took his revenge. The races were held over three upwind and two downwind legs, giving ample chances to recover from a poor start or bad wind shift..
Today there will be two more races organised and set by Jean Claude Travert, (President du Comite’ de Course), starting from 13.30 as the 20 boat fleet can only leave the harbour when the Gate/Lock opens at 12.33. The forecast is for less wind which will bring the strong tide more into play as competitors battle their way to the first windward mark…..
Higher, Faster, Longer………. Stavros. (GBR 771)..