RS500 Italian Championships at Circolo vela Bellano, Lake Como

RS500 Italian Nationals on Lake Como © Enrico Civeriati / www.enricociveriati.com

RS500 Italian Nationals on Lake Como © Enrico Civeriati / www.enricociveriati.com

The final international event in 2013 for the RS500s was held in the splendid waters of Lake Como in northern Italy. A keen fleet of 23 boats from 4 nations came to do battle and whilst some cloud shrouded the mountains the weather was very fortunate with good breezes and no rain until immediately after the prize giving!

Day1 was light with 3 races held in 4-8knots and it was the Italians who took charge. By the end of the day there was a full Italian podium with the young sailors Francesco Bozano & Andrea Dellepiane (ITA), Luca Abergo & Stefano Costini (ITA) and Filippo Bucciarelli & Gabriele Tropiano (ITA) showing great speed and tact around the tricky race course. The Italian class has a great group coaching program headed by top coach Federico Maccari enabling many young teams to become competitive quickly. The French, British and Dutch and teams tried to remain close and took the next 3 positions.

Day2 looked like it was going to be a day off, with no wind at all. However, whilst enjoying the produce of the Italian cooking master class laid on for fleet supporters the fleet were called to the start line where a lovely 14knots had arrived. With a bit more pressure the taller International crews managed to stretch their legs and Peter Barton & Heather Chipperfield (GBR), Marleen Blomsma & Jody de Jager (NED) and Florence Lebrum & Nico Honor (FRA), dominated the day.

Day3 and the results remained wide open with 2 races and a second discard up for grabs. After a short delay waiting for a light northerly to die and the southerly to build to a nice 9-12 knots the fleet were off. Two wins etched out by Peter & Heather (GBR) sealed the overall win and a 3, 2 by Francesco & Andrea (ITA) bounced them back into 2nd overall and they were crowned champions of all Italy. Marleen & Jody (NED) held 3rd and French champions Florence & Nico (FRA), despite two OCSs(!), held onto 4th by virtue of their consistency over the first 2 days. Class International Chairman Michiel Geerling, powered to 2nd place in race 7 ably assisted by the might of RS's Jon Partridge on the wire.

Next up is the UK Inland champs this weekend 12/13th Oct at Queen Mary, London where the coffee and scenery may be milder, but the racing will certainly be every bit as intense.

The International fleet is again looking forward to another Euro Grand Prix in 2014 with some exciting events planned at some great venues. The highlight of the season will be the World Championsips on the Atlantic tip of Brittany at Loctudy, France in August. Join the party now!

Overall Results: