Orient Express Triumphs in Rollercoaster Bosphorus Race
The Bosphorus Cup Day 2: Orient Express wins an up and down Bosphorus Race
Orient Express VI emerged as the fastest boat in today’s Bosphorus Race, showcasing tactical prowess in Istanbul. The 95-boat fleet set sail after a brief wait for the wind to pick up, embarking on a fast downwind start towards the southern end of the Bosphorus Strait.
Catalin Trandafir’s Soto 40 Essentia took an early lead, hugging the Asian shore and outpacing larger boats near Dolmabahce Palace. The race featured a challenging upwind leg along the European shore, with boats maneuvering to navigate strong currents and avoid obstacles.
As the boats battled on the water, onlookers at the Çiragan Palace Kempinski enjoyed the spectacle from shore, entertained by dancers representing the various winds of the Bosphorus. The ever-changing weather conditions added complexity to the race, testing the skill and strategy of the sailors.
Despite the challenging conditions, Orient Express emerged victorious, thanks to precise execution of maneuvers and strategic decision-making. The team, led by seasoned sailors Arif Gurdenli and Alican Kaynar, navigated the course adeptly, edging out competition from larger boats.
Gurdenli acknowledged the stiff competition at this year’s event, welcoming the opportunity to compete against formidable rivals. Organizers and participants alike expressed optimism about the future growth of the Bosphorus Cup, highlighting the potential for even more thrilling races in the years to come.
In the overall standings, Timofey Zhbankov’s JPK 11.80 Rossko Racer maintained its lead, with the final day of racing set to determine the ultimate winner of the 2024 Bosphorus Cup.
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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.