80 knot mistral hits Melges 32 World Championship
by International Melges 32 Class Association 18 Sep 2013 07:41 UTC
18-22 September 2013
On Tuesday at the 2013 Melges 32 World Championship, conditions induced a much stronger than anticipated mistral with wind speeds being clocked at almost 80 knots. The waters just outside Porto Rotondo harbor were over embellished with solid white cap and big spray conditions, a product of the powerful and impressive Sardinian breeze.
Also on Tuesday morning, following yet another amazing Robertissima party last night in honor of birthday boy Roberto Tomasini Grinover, competing owners and board members of the IM32CA gathered at Yacht Club Porto Rotondo (YCPR) for the 2013 Annual General Meeting (AGM). Class President Hank Stuart along with North American Board Member Jason Carroll (Argo), Class Vice President Richard Goransson (Helly Hansen Inga From Sweden), International Administrator Joy Dunigan, European Fleet Secretary Luisa Bambozzi, and International Class Measurer Egidio Babbi presented the year in review, progress and advance.
Immediately following, a beautiful and very elegant luncheon was sponsored by new Melges 32 owner Alessandro Rombelli aboard Azimut by STIG. The almost two hour mid-day affair was enjoyed by owners and their tacticians alike.
Despite the fact that most teams stayed ashore, destruction was inevitable as the building velocity of the breeze prompted the onsite Audi hospitality tent to come crashing down, thankfully no one was hurt. Teams however, came to the rescue assisting the YCPR in dismantling of the wreckage efforts.
Afternoon and early evening hour activities brought about the 2013 World Championship Skipper's meeting and opening ceremonies featuring YCPR President Luigi Dona Della Rosso and IM32CA Partner BPSE. It was obvious teams are really happy to be in Porto Rotondo, as they mingled over AstiHour drinks, food and camaraderie.
Wednesday's forecast does not look promising as the big breeze is expected to continue and may prove to be too much for racing. A Race Committee announcement will be made at 09.00 in Porto Rotondo regarding the intention for the day.
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