Around the World 'Orange' Champion wins in Cannes

47 Dragons took part in the recent Semaine International de Cannes, over a four day regatta that saw three days of light winds and one mistral. The race officer John Coveney did an excellent job to complete a total of six races in these very testing conditions.

Such is the quality of our beautiful Dragon Class these days, you never know what Olympic, World, National or Sailing Superstar will take up the challenge to race the best. This time, it came as no surprise to most of us, that top French Helmsman Bruno Peyron FRA 360 (Petticrow) with Gwen Chapalain and Jimmy Pahun took the trophy. Proving that to take the Orange flying machine to the fastest time around the world needs the skill of more than just ocean racing experience. Indeed Bruno won easily in the most difficult of conditions. I suggested to him at prize giving it was about time he pushed off and did the challenge again! (just to keep him out of the way for future events)................

Fighting for the other podium places were a whole host of other boats, but it was SWE 324 Extra Bla (Doomernik) with Goran Nilsson, Peter Kolni and Christer Johansson who took 2nd place and just edged out NOR 282 (Petticrow) helmed by 82 yr young Jan Erik Dyvi helped along by Vincie and Max, into 3rd place. Special credit must go to Jan Erik who less than 6 months ago saw his new dragon sink beneath him at the Regates Royal. What courage and determination to get back and compete again.... (another example of the calibre of sailor we attract to the Dragon Class).

Other super showings came from RUS 15 Mikhail Petriga in 4th place who is only in his second season on the helm, beating veteran Frank Berg into 5th place. Apparently Frank, on a recent visit to his Doctors had to have a run of the mill scan and to ease his nerves as the machine was switched on was allowed some music. Of course he chose Frank Sinatra singing My Way. So as they closed the doors for the scan to take place, all everyone, including Frank, could hear was "and now.. the end is near."

Top Irish boat was IRL 196 with Claire Hogan helming for Mick and Mark Dicker tactics. Then Top British boat was GBR 718 'Cavalier' helmed in only his second season by the Colonel, Tony Singer. His beautiful 'Lallow' Could Moulded has been re modernised by Petticrows and is always the show boat of the class. But now Tony and the rest of the fleet know that 'Cavalier' has super speed to go with the fantastic looks........ In closing I must mention the incredible job that Jean Pierre Gailes and his team do in organising this superb set-up for Dragon racing. 47 boats taking part in the end of February, sailing in the sun of Cannes....I ask you, what other class can equal that??

Higher, Faster, Longer.......... Stavros.