NZL EUROPEAN OPTI TEAM 2008

REPORT 2 - 01/07/2008

s well behaved and contested. The races were held in 16 knots "ora" which we have had for the first 4 days sailing at Riva. The first race was an Oceania affair with Clemant from Noumea and Henry being at the front of the fleet for most of the race. Jayvee and Vikki also had top 5 finishes and Alex had a handy race.The kiwis knew they would be very competitive and looking forward to sailing in these winds which appear to come in regularly at 1pm each day.

The opening ceremony was a great spectacle with the teams marching through the narrow cobbled streets of the medieval town.

That night a huge electrical storm came through which changed the weather pattern and the ora never came in for the first day of racing which saw a long hot day out on the water in shifty winds ranging from 3-8 knots. The kiwis with the exception of perhaps one race from Jayvee have all got their drops out of the way early!!!

The start line was massively pin end favoured and although the kiwi sailors positioned themselves well they were not quick enough to get on to port. The whole fleet would immediately tack at the start and all our sailors were 2 seconds too late.

Many others also did not fare well with Clemant, who looked so impressive at the practice race, crossing the line second to last.

From talking to many of the other teams, it would appear there are a number of sailors here who have competed in past Opti World Champs but missed selection this year due to their trials being in light conditions, so possibly many of the European teams at the World Champs may consist of smaller sailors.

After a good Italian meal in the old hotel last night and red wine for the supporters, all are in good spirits and hoping for the return of the ora.

It has been fantastic sharing the coach boat with the German team who are very helpful and accommodating. The kids are meeting many other sailors and loving the experience.

Ciao