2024 Optimist European Team Racing Championship

Bis repetita for the second day of the 2024 Optimist European Team Racing Championship, organised for the first time by Yacht Club de Monaco. As it did yesterday, an easterly wind was blowing across the race area for the 16 teams in competition ready to give their all in the 55 match races scheduled for the day.

“It’s a real privilege to be hosting for the first time this event that brings talented young sailors together from all over Europe. We are impressed by the intensity of the matches and level of commitment shown by all the teams,” says YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri. “The Monaco race venue is technically demanding and these guys have really risen to the challenge with determination and passion that puts on a show and is inspirational”.

Change of leader

During this second day, the Turks demonstrated unwavering determination and superiority. Unstoppable, they dominated almost every match race having conceded just one defeat since the start. This evening it looks like nothing can stand in their way to the European title. At ease in these sailing conditions, they defended their position with exemplary tenacity, knocking the Spanish off provisional first place on the podium.

 

Another shake-up

While the Turks look like serious contenders for the title, the battle at the top remains intense.  After their remarkable rise in the ranking yesterday, the Italian team also managed to overtake the Spanish propelling them into a provisional 2nd, with the always competitive Spanish in 3rd – but for how long.

Hard on their heels

Behind this leading trio, the Poles and Greeks still have skin in the game for a podium finish and will have their sights set on that goal. The 64 young sailors will be divided into the Gold and Silver rounds this evening, as they prepare to go into battle again tomorrow to secure a place in the final phase.

The contest is still wide open and promises more surprises tomorrow before the final match race of the Optimist European Team Racing Championship 2024.