RS500 World Championship 2013 – Day 1
The RS500World Championship kicked off today on the waters of the beautiful ice carved Kungsbacka fjord. The idyllic Scandinavian summer paradise of Gottskar have already proved excellent hosts in welcoming the 35 boat fleet from 6 nations.
Hot out of the blocks were the all girl Swedish campaigners, sisters Karin and Ingrid Soderstrom. Great speed and technique upwind saw them pull out a good lead that they were to extend all of the way to the finish. Peter Barton and Heather Chipperfield, showing off her new-found trapezing skills, held second for most of the race until finaly being overhauled b defending World champions, Tim Wilkins and Heather Martin who were quick to find their speedy modes again after a year reproducing in between championships.
Race 2 saw a port bias with the Sodersroms again fast away tacking onto port quickly at the port end. All those onto port early were able to be in the running with good pressure and a shift back to be found on the right hand side. Wilkins/Martin continued to build form taking the lead but a close battle ensued for the next 5 places. Italians Flippa Maccari and Andrea Dellepiane came through for 2nd with the Soderstroms taking 3rd.
Champagne, beer and Swedish kebabs followed racing allowing the fleet to enjoy the Swedish Riviera’s prolonged northern European heat wave, rekindle old friendships and enjoy the camaraderie within the fleet together with the 19 boat RS200 Swedish National fleet..
All is to play for tomorrow with a 3 race day and more wind in the forecast.
