Princess Sofia Trophy Starts With A Bang

Stunning conditions welcomed the sailors on day one of the Princess Sofia Trophy in Palma, Spain – the third event on the 2010-2011 ISAF Sailing World Cup tour. Two races apiece for the men's and women's 470 fleets sees Japan lead in the women's fleet with New Zealand clocking two race wins to lead the 470 men.

Photos by Thom Touw

Italy going strong

Italy's Dubbini brothers leading the pack

470 women's fleet

The first race of the day got underway in around 23 knots, with gusts above 26 – but toned down just a bit for race 2. No problem for the 470 fleet though.

The seventy-four boat strong 470 men's fleet is split into two fleets for the racing. For Paul Snow-Hansen and Jason Saunders (NZL) an opening day of an event doesn't get much better – two race wins in what were particularly challenging conditions will have put smiles on their faces. Interesting though, that the team who took two second places to finish the opening day in second overall were Nick Rogers and Chris Grube (GBR) who were recently training with the kiwis in New Zealand. Team mates Nic Asher and Elliot Willis (GBR) had a sound opener as well with a bullet and fifth place to finish in third overall. Teams from Sweden, Greece, Great Britain, Japan, Spain, Australia and Italy fill up the top ten.

The 40 boat women's fleet is sailing as a single fleet, with Ai Kondo and Wakako Tabata (JPN) taking a convincing lead with two race victories.The team finished seventh here in 2010 – so are setting out with strong intentions. Gil Cohen and Bouskila Vered (ISR) are second overall with a 5.2 posting. “It is good to have a bit of breeze,” said Cohen. “It was good fun! We are having a good start in the regatta so let's see how we go.”

Penny Clark and Katrina Hughes (GBR) also had a solid opening day with a 5,2. Their team mates in the new formation of Hannah Mills and Saskia Clark found their form in race 2 to finish fourth overall – keep an eye on these two as the event unfolds.

The deep spread and depth of talent in the 470 fleet sees 8 nations in the top 10 overall after day 1.

Erin Maxwell (USA) discusses her day on the water:

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More Information:
Event Website
470 Men Results
470 Women Results

Images: ©  Thom Touw