Viper Palma Series Finale

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The One Palma Viper Finale Regatta was hosted by Club Maritimo San Antonio de la Playa in Ca’n Pastilla near Palma. Teams from local clubs as well as the UK and Australia raced in perfect conditions throughout the event.

Day one saw classic Mediterranean conditions with clear blue skies and 8 – 14 knots.

GBR #274 raced out of the blocks leading at mark one and extending their lead at the finish; followed by ESP #305 (who won the last Palma event) in second.

As the wind dropped slightly in race two it was #305 overhauling #274 downwind to take the win, and ESP #304 getting the gun in race 3.

Day two with an earlier start time began lighter & built as the day wore on. Again racing was incredibly close with the lighter team ESP #304 winning again but GBR #274 showing their strength as the wind built. This breeze also saw the Aussies get into their stride, and the local ex-Star sailor from CMSAP.

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Race day 3 and the wind came in early at 20 knots with choppy seas. GBR #274 had the edge upwind but AUS #308 snatched the win at the gybe to the line. For race two no one could catch GBR #274, whilst the last race of the day saw a number of boats retire due to various gear failures with their rigs; this allowed local 420 sailor Laura Homer to win in ESP #241.

Points were close going into the final day.

Racing was postponed due to cloud and a light gradient, eventually racing got under way building to 12 knots then dropping away to 8. The races were won by the lighter teams but it was not enough to overhaul the young GBR team.

First overall was GBR 274 sailed by Tommy Darling, Charlie, Gus & owner Luka; second overall AUS 308 sailed by Rob Beurteux, Chris & Stubba; third overall AUS 310 sailed by Murray Howson, John & Tony.

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