33rd Student Yachting World Cup - Day 5
by Icarus Sailing Media 19 Oct 2013 10:36 NZDT
14-19 October 2013
The fifth day was composed of three windward-leeward races with two laps each and one coastal race. The teams enjoyed outstanding warm weather in Pornic. In the morning, the wind was really good at around twelve knots coming from the East.
In the first race of the day, Team USA, Belgium and Germany made a bad start and had to cross the line again. Still France and Switzerland, the two leaders of the cup, started well along with the defending champion. They were all sailing really fast today and completed the whole coastal race in less than an hour. At the second mark, Australia overtook France and was heading toward the finish line in the top position. Despite their good start, Switzerland had trouble tacking around a crowded buoy area. Australia finished first before France, Ireland, and UCD (the Defender).
The last three races were windward-leeward races. In the first one the current was really strong. It was making the start really difficult for each crew. The teams had been cautious and only Norway had to restart. At the end of the first lap, Team USA were first followed closely by France and the defender - the latter sailed very well today. Eventually, France passed them all and finished first. Then the UCD team came second and Australia third. The Chinese seemed to be coming to terms with their J80, they finished 11th.
As the second windward-leeward race started, the current strengthened. The waves were tight and conditions were tough for the crews. All the crews had trouble placing themselves for the start. Anyway, a general recall followed the start. This time all the teams were keeping their distance in order not to be disqualified. Team USA had a great start; they were faster than the others. There was not much space to tack at each mark. The UCD team had trouble with the rudder and they could not finish the race. Crossing the finish line, Norway claimed for damage on their boat.
The wind stayed up for the last race of the day. The UCD team and Norway had to quit the race because of damage on their boats. The crews paid more attention not crossing the starting line too early this time. France led the fleet at the beginning. Approaching the finish mark USA, England and France were side by side. Just before the buoy, Team USA led the fleet then England and France. However, France tacked first and sped up to win the race followed by England and USA.
The races today settled down the 2013 Student World Championship title with France becoming the new champion in this 33rd edition of SYWoC. Switzerland confirmed their second place.
www.sywoc.org