Opening day of the Copa del Rey

The combination of the world financial crisis and the competition from the AUDI Medcup circuit in 2009 resulted in the Copa del Rey having lost most of its luster this year. Its "star" classes, the TP52's and GP42's, are no gone for good, with the former having "decorative" presence with 5 boats (Matador, Pisco Sour, Synergy, Rusal and Bribón), the minimum to constitute a separate class.

With the clock regressing 10 years, the IRC saves the face of Spain's main regatta, and especially the Mini Maxis. An entry that stands out is Neville Crichton's brand new Mini Maxi Alfa Romeo III, helmed by Ben Ainslie. Alfa Romeo III is currently standing at the top of the leaderboard with 2 bullets in today's two races. Other significant entries include Hap Fauth's Alegre and Container, Ugo Schuetz's STP65, respectively 2nd and 3rd overall.

It's interesting noticing there are 4 IRCed T52's, CAM (the 2008 Artemis) helmed by Spain's Prince Felipe, AIFOS, Paprec Recyclage and Team Premier.

Highlights from the opening day of the 28th Copa del Rey. Palma, 3 August 2009. Video copyright Copa del Rey

With Ben Ainslie at the helm, Alfa Romeo III leads in the first day the 28th Copa del Rey. Palma, 3 August 2009. Photo copyright Jesus Renedo / Copa del Rey

Spain's Prince Felipe helms CAM in the 28th Copa del Rey. Palma, 3 August 2009. Photo copyright Nico Martinez / Copa del Rey

Marcus Wieser helms STP65 Container in the 28th Copa del Rey. Palma, 3 August 2009. Photo copyright Jesus Renedo / Copa del Rey

Spain's Prince Felipe helms CAM in the 28th Copa del Rey. Palma, 3 August 2009. Photo copyright Jesus Renedo / Copa del Rey