2023 Star European Championship, first two races in Cannes

The Star European Championship kicked off today in the Bay of Cannes, organized by the Yacht Club de Cannes and the International Star Class. 45 teams from 15 nations were on the starting line of the first two races of the Championship, after the Opening Ceremony that took place last night on the Croisette.

Some hurdles in the first race of the day. It got underway at midday with a not so stable Southwesterly wind of about 7 knots. It created some disappointment in the fleet, as when the leaders were at the downwind mark the wind shifted 35 degrees and the Race Committee chaired by Jérôme Nutte changed the course. The first race was won by the Danish Jurgen Schoenherr and the German Markus Koy. Two-time World Champion Diego Negri, here with Alberto Ambrosini, finished 21st and were the most upset by the change of course, as they were leading for the first half of the race.

The second race of the day had the wind increasing to 16 knots for everyone's enjoyment, even though the water of Cannes proved to be merciless with its steep chop! A good bullet for American Jack Jennings and crew Pedro Trouche, followed by Italian America's Cup helmsman Flavio Favini with Nicolas Seravalle and then again, Shoenherr and Koy.

Back ashore, the crews were welcomed by the buffet provided by the Cannes Yacht Club, and then some rest because tomorrow looks windier for two more races.

PROVISIONAL TOP 5 (after two races)

1. JENNINGS / TROUCHE
2. SHOENHERR / KOY
3. KOUYOUMDJIAN / RIVERO
4. FAVINI / SERAVALLE
5. BLEES / HOUWELING