Paul Cayard reports from the 93rd Bacardi Cup - Day 1

Paul Cayard at the Bacardi Cup, day 1 © Martina Orsini

The 93rd Bacardi Cup got under way today with 65 Stars, from 15 countries, racing under classic Biscayne Bay conditions of 12-15 knots from the Southeast. The wind was very steady with only small oscillations.

I am sailing with Pedro Trouche, a very good young Brazilian sailor. Pedro and I got off to a very good start at the left end of the line and after five minutes were able to tack and cross the fleet.

Our goal for Day 1 was to have a good race without taking big risks. Thus crossing when we could and getting in the middle of the race course. We lost a couple of boats on both edges and rounded the first mark sixth.

We fought with Negri/Kleene(ITA/GER), Peter and Robert O'Leary (IRL), Kusznierewicz/Prada(POL/BRA) and Schönherr/Koy (DEN/GER) most of the day. In the end, we finished a strong third with O"Leary brothers winning over Kusznierewicz/Prada in second.

Tomorrow's forecast is for more of the same, maybe a touch less wind.

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