Dubois Cup 2011 Porto Cervo; fleet on the dock. Image copyright Rick Tomlinson/Dubois.
by Jill Campbell
Despite the best efforts of everyone concerned, racing was unable to take place today at the Dubois Cup 2011, organized by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS) from 4th to 6th June, due to a almost complete lack of wind off the north-east coast of Sardinia.
A low pressure front moving over Sardinia brought grey skies and rain to what is normally a sailing paradise, known for its brisk winds and endless sunshine. The YCCS Race Committee and the fleet of Dubois-designed superyachts stayed out on the water for several hours in the hopes of getting a race in today, but it simply was not to be as the wind gods turned their back on their regular haunt. Racing was officially abandoned for the day at around 3 p.m.
The poor weather conditions didn't manage to dampen the spirits of the competing owners and crews who returned to the docks for after-race refreshments in the Yacht Club's Piazza Azzurra before the much-awaited Owners' Dinner on the Club's pool terrace. Nor did it dissuade the many supporters and enthusiasts who came to Porto Cervo to observe the striking 12-strong fleet of sailing yachts - whose combined total length amounts to almost 450 metres - lined up in the marina.
YCCS Sports Director Edoardo Recchi hopes to see some better conditions tomorrow: "This kind of weather is unusual for Porto Cervo and there is a very low pressure front moving over Sardinia at the minute. It is passing however, and hopefully we will have something better tomorrow."
Racing is scheduled to continue tomorrow, Monday 6th June at 12 midday. Light, easterly breezes are forecast.
For further information, a full entry list and detailed itinerary please visit www.duboiscup.com
