8th Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series

Saturday 5th February 2021. The easterly wind kept blowing for the second day of racing, with a steady 18 knots filling in to 25, giving the sailors a real blast in the midst of the swell. Long downwind surfs, fast manoeuvres round the marks with hulls heeled over upwind, there was no rest for the fleet at this mid-point in the second act of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series.

Sweet revenge

After their disqualification in the first race yesterday, the Italians on Petite Terrible-Adria Ferries, helmed by Claudia Rossi, were back on the pace, putting in a flawless performance from start to the final finish line.  Completely at ease in the tough conditions, they took control of the ranking this evening and lead the way, after winning three of the six races. They grabbed every opportunity to widen the gap with the competition.

 

 

 

Hard on their heels is YCM’s Ludovico Fassitelli (Junda-Banca del Sempione) who moves into 2nd place, followed by another YCM member, Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio (G-Spot) in 3rd.  The Monaco teams are on form, with five in the top ten this evening. There is still everything to play with eyes being kept close on Alessandro Molla (Viva) and Gianrocco Catalano (Alice), in 4th and 5th, who could still spoil the party.

 

 

 

High level field

There are many Olympic reps at the party, big names who bring their talent to different series like Giulio Desiderato. A star of the one design circuits, over the years he has shone in the 470, Melges 20, 24, 32, 40 and in the J/70. His experience gained during three Olympic preparations make him an undeniable asset to the crew on Petite Terrible-Adria Ferries. The J/70 European Champion title holders also have Finn Michele Paoletti on board who made his name in the Melges 24, 32, J/70, Farr 30 and Laser. Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio also boasts a fine crew on G-spot including Brcin Branko and Alessandro Franci, a regular on the Melges 20 circuits.

Rendezvous for the final day of racing tomorrow, Sunday 7th February at 11.00am.

 

Programme (subject to change)

Sunday 7th February

11.00am: 1st warning signal

45 minutes after last boat finishes: prize-giving