The beginning of the XII edition of the Southern Wind Shipyard (SWS) Trophy was marked by a glorious start of the Grande Orazio yacht. The event is currently being hosted by the Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta, running in the gorgeous setting of the popular Sardinia yacht charter destination – Porto Cervo.
SWS Trophy 2014 Day 1
A constant wind from North West took the Southern Wind Shipyard‘ fleet in a 31 Miles captivating route, around La Maddalena Islands.
Two days of intensive training enabled the crews to test the yachts, settling and organizing the positions on board.
The crew of the 6 yachts competing for the Trophy were full of enthusiasm at the starting line.
From the very first leg upwind the ranking took shape: SW82 sailing yacht Grande Orazio outstripped all the other yachts in the fleet.
“The first two legs upwind have been just fantastic; with an average speed of 10,5 knots we turned around La Maddalena Island for a long abeam leg, ending with the gennaker hoisted in front of Palau”, proudly says the owner, Mr Massimiliano Florio, who achieved the first place one in C class.
SW100 superyacht Cape Arrow did an excellent performance, confirming once again her undisputed leadership of the Trophy, won in 2012.
Peter Holmberg, winner of the America’s Cup in 2007 as tactician, has managed the regatta skillfully from the first buoy. “Cape Arrow is a really impressive boat especially upwind, really nice to sail. The crew did a great job, making this first day race a clean day, with no mistakes”, said showing his satisfaction once on the dock.
A notable 3rd place for charter yacht Farewell, with the owner Mr Alessandro Rinaldi, veteran of this competition, at the helm.
Based on these premises, there will surely be three days of fascinating challenges and unforgettable excitement.
