Musto Skiff Spanish Eurocup at Club Nàutic S'Arenal
by Mark Branagh 15 Apr 2013 17:21 BST
6-7 April 2013
Musto Skiff Spanish Eurocup at Mallorca © Marina Könitzer
The Musto Skiff Eurocup was held on the 6-7th April at Club Nàutic S'Arenal on the east side of Palma bay. The sailing area was bustling with ISAF Olympic classes finishing off their fantastic Princess Sofia regatta and the sunny, breezy conditions that dominated the week held out for the skiffs.
The class in Arenal were delighted to welcome current world champion, Bruce Keen to sail in the event. As always, the friendly class are always willing to encourge racing at this top international venue and do what they can to help out with the lending of boats and finding accommodation.
Racing started in 18-20 knots on Saturday afternoon. Due to an unusal falling of snow on the mountains the air was chilly but the sun was out. The first race saw Justo leading Bruce and Ronald until the end of the last down wind where Bruce gybed and got the advantage. The second, third and fourth races were a little more comfortable, but not easy wins for the Champ! Both Ronald and Justo were fighting hard but Bruces ability to sail to the limit on the downwind legs and still be in contol prevailed... four races and four bullets.
Sunday's racing was posponed whilst the sea breaze took effect and finally coming in at about 1400hrs. The weather patten was variable with winds of 12-16 knots and some big wind shifts. A bad start saw Justo fighting back through the race to finish fourth. Joan Rossello had an excellent start and spent a while leading the fleet. Only having joined the class at the end of last season, he showed some detemination to finish in third. Ronald with his mysterious downwind tactics finished second. The rest of the races finished with Bruce predictably leading but some excellent racing amongst the rest of the fleet. The event was held in perfect Musto Skiff conditions and with the sun shining... what more could you ask for?
Thanks to the race officer and Marina Konitzer for the photos and also Bruce for making the effort to sail with us.