Sailing gave way to other sports today on the first day of races of the 2024 EurILCA Europa Cup ITA in Punta Ala, Italy.
Strong wind conditions and waves prevented sailors to launch their boats from the beach for safety reasons.
However, despite the lack of competition, participants found enjoyment in various activities at the place, including beach-volley, foot-volley, ping-pong, volley-pong, dance, card games, chats, drinks, and meals.
To wrap up the day on a good note, a pasta meal was served at the end of the afternoon.
The plan for tomorrow includes three races per fleet, with the first warning signal at 11:00. Three ILCA 4 groups (two Men and one Women) along with one ILCA 7 group will race on the Alpha course, while four ILCA 6 groups (three Men and one Women) will compete in Bravo’s area.
A total of 553 sailors representing 29 countries are taking part in this competition, organized by Centro Velico Punta Ala at PuntAla Camp&Resort.
The Centro Velico Punta Ala wants to thank the Municipality of Scarlino, the Municipality of Castiglione della Pescaia, and the technical partners Devoti Sailing, Negrinautica, and Decathlon Grosseto for the collaboration and support in organizing the event. For logistic support, thanks are also extended to the collaboration of PuntAla Camp&Resort and the numerous local associations, including the Yachting Club Isole di Toscana, Club Velico Castiglione della Pescaia, Lega Navale di Follonica, Club Nautico di Follonica, and Yacht Club Punta Ala.
How to follow the event – Useful links
About the EurILCA Europa Cup Trophy
The EurILCA Europa Cup Trophy is a series of regattas held throughout the year in stunning venues across Europe. Open to sailors of all ages, starting from 12 years old, and on all rigs (ILCA 7, ILCA 6, and ILCA 4), these events offer fierce competition on the water alongside a vibrant social scene. They have become highly popular events on the European sailing calendar.
This championship in Italy marks the third event of the year, following two successful regattas held in Portugal and Spain.
The next event in our annual competition will be the 2024 EurILCA Europa Cup SUI, which immediately follows Italy, taking place from May 9th to 12th in Neuchâtel. So far, 105 sailors have registered for the event, and entries are open until Wednesday, May 8th.
For further information about the 2024 EurILCA Europa Cup Trophy, please visit the webpage here.
Keep smiling, keep sailing!
The EurILCA Team
Report by Agustín Argüelles – EurILCA | Photos by Centro Velico Punta Ala.
