Calero Sailing Team Triumphs at 44Cup World Championship on Lake Lucerne
Calero Sailing Team Successfully Concludes 44Cup World Championship on Lake Lucerne
Calero Sailing Team faced challenging conditions at the 44Cup World Championship held on Lake Lucerne from August 21 to 25, 2024. After several days of sunshine and strong winds, rain arrived on the final day, impacting the racing schedule. Despite these difficulties, the team managed to compete in three additional races in the Urnersee section of the lake.
A challenging start to the day hindered the team’s performance, as they experienced a broken runner block just before the first race. Although they began the second race positively with a solid start and good upwind sailing, they struggled with their downwind maneuvers. Tactician Alfredo Gonzalez noted that their early gybe did not play to their advantage given the course’s preference for the left side.
Throughout the championship, Calero Sailing Team found themselves at the bottom of the leaderboard. However, they had stronger performances earlier in the week. Gonzalez shared insights into the unique sailing conditions on Lake Lucerne, emphasizing the importance of adjusting to the breeze, similar to open sea sailing. The use of robotic marks simplified the racing process, allowing the team to focus on competition in the center of the lake.
Despite mixed results, team owner Daniel Calero expressed optimism about their competitiveness. He acknowledged that while they made few errors, those they did make significantly affected their standings. The team faced difficulties maintaining pace during downwind segments after reaching windward marks.
The Canary Islands team boasted a talented crew for the regatta, featuring seasoned sailors such as Olympic Radial competitor Alicia Cebrian, Tokyo 470 bronze medallist Nico Rodríguez, and Finn sailor Miguel Fernández, among others. Calero praised the crew’s performance, highlighting the blend of experience they brought to the boat.
Looking ahead, Calero is eager to return to the 44Cup in 2025 with their own boat rather than relying on a borrowed vessel. The team’s goal is to refine their systems to perform optimally in diverse conditions.
Calero, a supporter of the 44Cup and host of their own event in the Canary Islands, commended local organizer Christian Zuerrer for the excellent execution of the championship in Brunnen, noting the friendly atmosphere and well-structured event.
Calero Sailing Team competes with the backing of various sponsors, including Centros de Arte, Cultura y Turismo de Lanzarote, Calero Marinas, and Calmar Residential Developments, showcasing Lanzarote’s unique cultural and natural values as well as promoting luxury tourism in the region.
For more information, visit their team website: calerosailingteam.com and the event website: www.44cup.org.
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.