Race management for the Dubai Duty Free SB20 World Championship successfully completed four races today, effectively putting the world championships back on schedule for a full series of races following a one-day delay to the start. With only five races remaining, the competition is heating up as sailors vie for the top spots in the standings.
The forty-eight teams experienced incredibly volatile conditions, with Race 5 seeing the course shortened on the second lap due to the wind dropping out altogether. Races 7 and 8 marked a shift as the wind began to stabilise. Consistency and focus among the sailors became crucial factors in climbing up the leaderboard, highlighted by Desert Eagle’s move from 5th overall to second place.
Enthusiasm and competitiveness among the teams remained high, with Ian Garretta, skipper of France Jeune FFVoile 1, stating, “We had some good races but we did two very bad races. We managed to win the last race, and I think we finished 4th place in the second race of the day, so not very happy but we are still in the game.”
Kidzink, which secured the top position yesterday, retained its third-place standing on the leaderboard today, with Superbella trailing closely in second. However, claiming first place today was Desert Eagle, helmed by Hendrik Witzmann. Reflecting on the day’s events and the weather conditions, Hendrik remarked, “I have never had conditions like that in Dubai. The challenge we have of not taking too much risk to then suddenly be 30 or 40 which is easily possible. So it was ok for us today. I would say, we are happy.”
Alongside the thrilling races, the Race Village buzzes with activities for all, from interactive games to local cuisine stalls and live entertainment. It’s a lively atmosphere that enriches the Dubai Duty Free SB20 World Championships experience. Additionally, other members will savour a romantic dinner with DOSC’s Valentine’s offering.
For further updates and announcements, please stay tuned to the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club’s official channels and website.
Photo credits – Mike Brignall