Racing is cancelled in the 2nd day of HUBLOT PalmaVela

The island of Majorca is under siege from the wind, leaving race officers no choice but keep the boats on shore

Tomorrow Saturday all 230 boats from 14 classes will be competing on the waters of the Palma bay

Palma de Majorca, 18 April 2008 – Racing was cancelled across the board in the second day of the HUBLOT PalmaVela regatta due to excessive winds over 30 knots, with gusts reaching 40 knots.

The impressive Maxis gave us a prelude of was to come with their inaugural costal race on Thursday. The strong winds that prevailed over the bay throughout the day provided exciting sailing conditions but unfortunately happiness was due to turn into frustration. The city once again woke up under cloudy and covered skies but winds had not abated as expected. The breeze was already blowing from the southwest at 15 knots in mid morning and kept increasing throughout the day.

HUBLOT PalmaVela’s Principal Race Officer, Gaspar Morey, pointed that they had to cancel all races because wind speeds were constantly over 30 knots and there was no clear indication they would have dropped by the end of the day. According to Gaspar, the forecast for Saturday is that conditions will ameliorate, helping the race committee squeeze in as many races as possible.

The race officers’ intention for tomorrow is to continue the initially scheduled program with the opening race of the Lateen Sail, Disabled Sailing, One-Meter International and Industry Yachting classes.

The schedule for Saturday calls for two windward-leeward races for the One-Design, IRC, RN, Disabled Sailing, Lateen Sail, Vintage & Classic classes. The Maxis will sail two coastal races, while the One-Meter International and Industry Yachting classes have one race scheduled.

The forecast for Saturday is much more optimistic since winds are expected to drop significantly, allowing the race committee to hopefully carry out all races.

Racing is canned in the 2nd day of HUBLOT PalmaVela

PROVISIONAL STANDINGS AFTER THE 2nd DAY

Maxi Wally

1. Y3K, Claus-Peter Offen 1 point
2. Open Seanson, Thomas Bscher, 2 points
3. Tiketoo, Mike Donnithorne, 4 points

Maxi Racers/Cruisers

1. Sercotel Hotels, F. López/J. Turró, 1 point
2. Rani, Jochen Hertzke, 2 points
3. Kiboko, J.I. Entrecanales, 3 points
4. Fortuny, Javier Merino, 8 points
5. Prana, Robert Holthuizen, 8 points
6. Aegir, Benjamin Brian, 8 points
7. Lizard, José Manuel Entrecanales, 8 points