Third day of the 5.5 Metre French Open, rain and no wind

It was a very different day in Cannes, one that was certainly not as described in the brochure. The third day of the 5.5 Metre French Open at the Regates Royales was a wash out with incessant rain showers and no stable wind all day.

An early postponement over a windless Cannes Bay lasted through the morning to “wait and see” what happens, while showers passed over. Every time the water appeared dark, hopes of wind were dispelled as the dark patches were just rain clouds passing over. Visibility was low, with the other end of the bay only visible for brief periods, while the cruise ships anchored in the bay also became obscured in the murk, and provided an indication of how unlikely racing was to take place.

Forecasts of a southerly filling in varied greatly, but eventually the fleet was sent out around 13.00 as a vague sort of breeze was filling in. However, it soon dissipated, and the boats were wallowing around on an increasing swell and intermittent showers.

Eventually, the fleet started to arrange tows back to the club, followed soon after by AP over A. As the fleet were enjoying the club’s hospitality two hours later there was still not a stable enough wind to race. The day was lost.

Despite the disappointment, the joviality and camaraderie in the fleet was excellent, everyone enjoying the extra time to chat, watch the AC races and enjoy each other’s company. It was a lost sailing day, but not wasted time.

The 2024 5.5 Metre French Open concludes on Friday with two races scheduled. The forecast is for moderate to fruity onshore winds, with a southerly swell and sunshine, so should be a great end to a challenging week in Cannes.

Beta Crucis (AUS 63, Martin CROSS, Bob STODDARD, John Cross) remains unbeaten after three days…but still need to put together a flawless performance on the final day to take the title.