GKSS Claims Victory in the Swedish J/70 Sailing League Championship
GKSS Wins Swedish J/70 Sailing League – Amal
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The third regatta of the Swedish J/70 Sailing League took place in Amal, Sweden, organized by Åmålsvikens Sailingällskap. This weekend regatta was graced with excellent sailing conditions on Lake Vänern, located just outside the picturesque harbor in Amal.
Throughout the event, competition unfolded as a fierce duel between Åmålsvikens Sailingällskap and GKSS (Gothenburg’s Royal Sailing Society). As the grand finale race approached, GKSS held a slim lead, just one point ahead of Åmålsviken.
The final race was intense, with both teams exchanging leads. In the double-points race, the first to cross the finish line of the two would clinch victory.
Leading into the final downwind leg, Åmålsviken maintained a narrow four-second advantage over GKSS. However, during the downwind leg, the two teams took divergent paths across the course. GKSS capitalized on favorable gusts on the right side, overtaking Åmålsviken and finishing just a boat length ahead for the win!
Marcus Westerlind, the GKSS skipper, remarked, “We had very good crew work all weekend, both in light and stronger winds. Even when we fell behind, we successfully fought our way back and encountered no significant issues.”
Variable and challenging wind conditions marked the entire weekend on Vänern.
Westerlind further stated, “The sailing conditions in Åmål were about what you could expect. There were shifts and changes in wind strength and direction, requiring constant vigilance and adaptability. The support we received from the officials in Åmål was exceptional; they make every effort to ensure a great experience for sailors.” He added, “This venue has such a fantastic setup!”
The top five results from Åmål were as follows: GKSS (Royal Gothenburg Yacht Club) took first place, SSÅV (Segelsällskapet Åmålsviken) placed second, Hjuviks Båtklubb secured third, Halmstads Segelsällskap finished fourth, and Ekerö Båtklubb rounded out the top five.
Swedish J/70 Sailing League Series Overall
In the current overall standings of Allsvenskan 2024, KSSS (Royal Swedish Yacht Club) and Halmstad Sailing Club are leading the pack. GKSS ranks third, followed by Stenungsunds Sail Club in fourth and Ekoln Sailing Club in fifth.
The final competition is scheduled for September 6th to 8th in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. For more information on the Swedish J/70 Sailing League, click here.
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.