5.5 Metre Class World Championship at Yacht Club de l’Odet: A Premier Sailing Event
5.5 Metre Class World Championship at Yacht Club de l’Odet – Day 1
29 August – 7 September 2024
Aspire and Girls on Film ll Win First Two World Championship Races
In an intense opening day of racing, which featured predominately full hiking conditions, Aspire and Girls on Film ll emerged as the race winners. However, The Jean Genie showed impressively consistent performance with two second places, currently leading the board two points ahead of Aspire. Artemis positions third overall with one third and one fourth place finish.
After a general recall for the initial start, the fleet managed a clean getaway on the second attempt. Aspire got off to a strong start in clean air at the pin end of the line, avoiding the congestion of slower boats near the committee boat. The team worked the left side of the course, alongside several competitors.
Leading into the first windward mark was a tightly packed group, including Ali Baba, The Jean Genie, and Shaolin. Aspire, having overstood, made a tactical move, tacking underneath and rounding the mark with a slim lead. Gacek commented, “Going left after the start was a good choice—thanks to some clear air, we found good speed, and my teammates made smart decisions at the top mark.”
Despite dropping a couple of places on a challenging downwind leg, Aspire rounded the second windward mark in second behind The Jean Genie and made strategic decisions to finish ahead, marking Gacek’s first victory as helmsman in the 5.5 Metre class.
In the second race, Girls on Film ll forged ahead with a substantial lead after a promising start on the committee boat side. Crew member Mills shared insights, noting the course conditions were shifty but favorable for their strategy. Their positioning allowed them to round the first windward mark just behind The Jean Genie before maintaining an advantageous position throughout the race.
The Evolution fleet, featuring older boats, is led by Criollo, narrowly ahead of ChlikaChlikaChlika, while the classic division is headed by Manuela V. Racing is set to continue throughout the week at the Yacht Club de l’Odet in south Brittany, where ten races are scheduled.
For full results, check here (PDF format).
Event details and results are available at www.yco-voile.fr/5-5-benodet-2024.
Luca Moretti, an accomplished sailor and marine journalist from Genoa, Italy, has a lifelong passion for the sea that has defined his career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Genoa, Luca is celebrated for his vivid and insightful storytelling. His work captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime traditions of Europe, making him a well-respected voice in the sailing community. When he’s not writing, Luca can be found exploring the Mediterranean’s picturesque coastlines and competing in regattas, always seeking new adventures on the open water.