Woman Leading and Sailing Trophy

Thursday 14th March 2024 – Following a highly successful first edition last year, Yacht Club de Monaco is organising the 2nd all-female Woman Leading and Sailing Trophy on J/70s. “This competition had a great impact last year and it seemed only logical to continue the adventure and open it up to more teams,” says YCM General Secretary Bernard d’Alessandri. Held under the aegis of the collective ‘Monaco, Capital of Advanced Yachting’ approach, in collaboration with the French and Monegasque Sailing Federations and in partnership with FxPro and Slam, the regatta will welcome 90 sailors from around the world.

 

 

Pink Wave sailors on deck

The event is an initiative of Pink Wave, a group of 50-plus enthusiastic lady sailors at YCM who get together regularly to share their passion for sailing. Some have just finished taking part in the 40th Primo Cup – Trophée UBS and will be back on the water for the 2nd Woman Leading and Sailing Trophy.

 

Twenty crews representing 13 nations will be out racing in Monaco bay, more than double the number of last year, such was the impact.  “There were eight teams last year compared to over 20 this year. We can’t wait to get out there and meet all our friends from abroad. There is one team coming from South Korea and another from the USA, and all a very high level,” explains Anne Schouten from the Monegasque team.

 

A driving force behind this 100% female regatta, Pink Wave has really gathered momentum at YCM since they established the group. “We started with a team of five girls and now we have 55 ladies to draw from within the group. We bought the boat only five years ago so we are delighted,” says Kathryn Hoyos.

 

So what’s the key to their success? Being able to draw on a wide range of talent is one aspect as Anne Rodelato explains: “Our adventure goes back a few years ago. We started training on J/70s. I had experience on this boat but everyone brings their skills to the table and it’s just been fantastic”.

 

The stage is set for a fun and exciting weekend of racing starting Saturday 16th March with the first race scheduled to start at 11.00am.

 

Copyright-free photos and video footage available on request

Press contacts: Yacht Club de Monaco – Tel: +377 93 10 64 09 – Email: presse@ycm.org