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The 2024 44Cup World Championships are set to take place in Brunnen, Switzerland, from August 21-25, attracting a fleet of high-performance RC44s driven by their owners. This prestigious event will unfold in the stunning alpine landscape of Lake Uri, known for its dramatic mountain backdrop.
Among the nine teams competing, six have previously claimed the title of RC44 World Champions. Team Nika, led by Vladimir Prosikhin, is a strong contender this year. They currently top the 2024 44Cup season standings and have an impressive record, having won the World Championship three times in the past. Prosikhin acknowledges the significance of this championship, describing it as the most important event of the year, where every team puts in an exceptional effort to win. With each team sporting new sails, the competition promises to be fierce and exciting.
Lake Uri presents its own challenges with variable sailing conditions, making tactical expertise vital for success. Prosikhin emphasizes that this championship will spotlight the tactical acumen of the teams rather than relying solely on the drivers.
Nico Poons’ Charisma, the defending champion, aims for a hat-trick having won the last two World Championships and the overall title for the 2023 44Cup season. After changing tacticians early in the 2024 season, Charisma bounced back with a victory in Marstrand, setting their sights on another championship win in Brunnen.
Torbjörn Törnqvist’s Artemis Racing, a previous World Champion, shows promising form this season, finishing as runner-up in Marstrand and securing their first event victory since 2016 in Baiona. Close competitors Igor Lah’s Team Ceeref Vaider and Hugh Lepic’s Aleph Racing are just one and two points behind, making the competition tight.
John Bassadone’s Peninsula Racing and Chris Bake’s Team Aqua face a challenge with new boats, particularly as Bake is sidelined due to an injury. Daniel Calero’s Calero Sailing Team has been racing in the class’s ‘black boat’ this season, providing them with valuable experience.
The dark horse of the event may be the Black Star Sailing Team, helmed by local event organizer Christian Zuerrer. With extensive training on Lake Uri, their knowledge of the area could give them a competitive edge. As the competition draws closer, teams are assessing the weather patterns on the lake, with a promising forecast of sunny conditions for most of the week.
The overall rankings for the 2024 44Cup highlight the competitive landscape:
1. Team Nika – 10 points
2. Artemis Racing – 11 points
3. Team Ceeref Vaider – 12 points
4. Aleph Racing – 13 points
5. Charisma – 14 points
6. Peninsula Racing – 14 points
7. Team Aqua – 16 points
8. Black Star Sailing Team – 18 points
9. Calero Sailing Team – 28 points
As this exciting sailing event approaches, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an exhilarating week on the water.
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Alex Tanaka, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Singapore, has a deep passion for the sea that began in childhood. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the National University of Singapore, Alex has built a reputation for insightful and engaging storytelling. Their work captures the excitement of sailing and the intricate details of maritime life, making them a respected voice in the sailing community. When not writing, Alex enjoys exploring new waters and participating in local regattas, always seeking the next adventure on the horizon.
