Francesco Bruni (ITA, Matador) and Dean Barker (NZL, Emirates Team New Zealand) - FIFA World Cup. Image copyright Carlo Borlenghi/Audi MedCup.
by Sabina Mollart-Rogerson
Welcome to the Marseille Trophy Mr Mistral! The arrival of the famous Mistral sees the frantically flapping flags around the Audi MedCup village adding to the bustle as the TP52 and GP42 Series fleets prepare for their penultimate scheduled day of racing Quantum Racing (USA) levered themselves clear of the chasing pack yesterday with a well executed win in the Coastal Race, leaving them with a 4.5 points lead. With the forecast this morning promising winds to 26 knots during the early part of the racing programme, dropping away only a little later in the afternoon, the shore-crews and sailing teams were at their boats early to do all they can to make sure that equipment is at 100%. Many teams yesterday had breakdowns of some description, even Quantum Racing admitted to some small issues which they dealt with quietly and efficiently.
TP52 coastal race at the Audi MedCup Marseille. Image copyright Carlo Borlenghi/Audi MedCup.
On TeamOrigin (GBR) Kelvin Harrap (NZL) steps into the shoes of Ben Ainslie to steer TeamOrigin 1851 today. The four times Olympic medallist is on duty at the JP Morgan Round the Island Race where he is committed to representing his personal sponsors who also back the huge race around the Isle of Wight. Deputising for one of the world’s best starters won’t be easy.
Audi MedCup Marseille. Image © Guido Trombetta_Studio Borlenghi/Audi MedCup.
Three race are planned for today on the rade sud to ensure that the complement of races sailed is maximised, in the event that Mr Mistral plays it extra mean on Sunday. Big winds, big waves are expected.
Emirates Team New Zealand rugby. Image copyright Nico Martinez/Audi MedCup.
The GP42 series fleet will be four boats strong following yesterday’s damage to the masthead crane on Peninsula Petroleum (GBR/ESP).
Audi MedCup
