The Bay of Algeciras had a complete change of complexion for the penultimate day of racing at the 44Cup Alcaidesa Marina with the southerly wind initially non-existent, then slowly filling in to 8-10 knots. Thus the race course was set up in the opposite direction to yesterday, with competitors sailing towards the entrance of the Bay, with the formidable Rock of Gibraltar off to port.
Today was well forecast as being light – the Bay of Algeciras laying on the complete test – so PRO Maria Torrijo announced a one hour postponement to 1300. The first warning signal eventually was at 1320.
The lighter conditions seemed to the liking of one team that has been having a surprisingly sub-standard year. Igor Lah’s Ceeref powered by Hrastnik 1860 finally found her form winning the first race.
As yesterday, Christian Zuerrer’s Black Star Sailing Team went out to the right on their own, benefitting greatly on a lifting tack. But coming into the top mark, the wind went weird. Nonetheless, the Swiss team managed to continue leading around the top mark, with Ceeref and Aleph behind. On the run tactician Ceeref’s Adrian Stead did a better job reading the shifts and the Slovenian team led round the leeward gate. They then hung on to claim what, surprisingly, was their first bullet at a 44Cup event since Oman in February.
“The team work was brilliant and the guys did a brilliant job and Ado did good tactics today. We were a little worried but I think the boat speed is back to what it was.”