Just a couple of weeks after the J/70 World Championship, organised for the first time by Yacht Club de Monaco in October, the show continues in Monaco’s bay. The class was back out racing today for Act 1 of the 10th Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series which has gathered around 30 teams from six nations. This series of monthly regattas from November to March has become a tradition for many international teams as they prepare for the next season.
A stiff 20-25 knot breeze gusting 27 and kicking up plenty of spray reminded contestants it was autumn. Despite an insistent indolent sun, conditions were challenging once they filled in, but not enough to put off the fleet which was literally surfing the waves on this first day.
There was no negotiation at the head of the pack between the first five, all YCM members, led by Graeme Peterson (Moonlight II) ahead of Stefano Roberti (Piccinina) and Cesare Gabasio (Tinn J70). In 4th and 5th, we have Ludovico Fassitelli (Junda) and Pierrik Devic (Leonteq), respectively World Vice-Champions in the One Pro and Open of the 2022 Worlds. In the Corinthian (amateurs) category, Cesare Gabasio (Tinn J70) is ahead of the French on Sage Engineers followed by the Swiss on Jacqueline.
Tomorrow promises lighter conditions and a chance to reshuffle the pack for those left behind in the field on this first day. It looks set to be a fascinating Act 1 with the range of weather conditions and profile of participants, many of whom could lay claim to the podium.
Rendezvous from 11.00am for the first warning signal.
