Wind and great sailing for start of ISAF Sailing World Cup in Palma

6:50 PM Sun 28 Mar 2010 GMT

'Close racing in the 470 class on Day 1 of the Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia Mapfre in Palma, Spain' Event Media Click Here to view large photo

Low and unstable wind prevailed on the first day of racing of the 41 Trofeo S.A.R. Princesa Sofia Mapfre, third event of the ISAF Sailing World Cup. The top level of the sailors was clear today with very tight results in all races.

The overall results show a top five to be defined in most classes with some surprises. A clear example is found in the 470 men, with 93 boats divided in two groups. Stuart Mcnay from the US, leader of the class tied with Australian sailor Matthew Belcher, has battled with the day's tough conditions. According to Mcnay, 'the good wind and the fast decision making of the Race Committee when changing the racing area have been key factors to their victory'.

His crew Graham Biehl pointed out that 'this is a test event for them' because their goal is to improve their technique on the water. Argentinean team Lucas Calabrese and Juan de la Fuente have finished third in the class and second in their group. 'Right now being third is not too important' pointed out Calabrese explaining that there are still many days of racing ahead. Notwithstanding, both are satisfied with the good results after adapting to today's wind conditions that were favourable to them. Calabrese, has also praised the Race Committee for the decisions made on the water.

In 470 women, the day's winners have been Italian team Giulia Conti and Giovanna Micol. After 'being asleep in the first start', the team has been able to climb up to seventh place and regain enough confidence to end up winning the second.

Complete results and further information on www.trofeoprincesasofia-mapfre.org

by Event Media