Monday, April 15, 2013

Pendola Leads Argentina's J/24 Autumn Cup


J/24 women crew sailing in chilly weather(Buenos Aires, Argentina)- While winter seemingly still has not left the northern hemisphere, clinging a bit too tenaciously for most battle-hardened sailors, the J/24 gang down in Buenos Aires are enjoying nearly equally crazy conditions in their J/24 Autumn Cup, hosted by Yacht Club Argentino.

After a hard day of racing Saturday, the fleet was able to complete three good races. Southwest winds prevailed despite, providing the fleet with what is known locally as the "borneo conditions", rains blasting the fleet with massive wind shifts and winds gusting from 15-25 kts.  With the racing taking place not far off the "North Dock", the fleet was constantly challenged with shifty, gusty cells that keep mixing up the fleet.  After three races sailed, it was clear the CACIQUE team led by Sergio Pendola had established a good lead on the fleet with a 1-1-2.

For Sunday's racing, the fleet was blessed with a sweet sunny day with little breeze. After two hours of postponement a gentle northerly settled onto the race course, veering to the northeast that grew stronger during the day.  The RC managed to run two good races to make for a nice start for the two weekend series. The first race with soft breeze was again won by Sergio Pendola and the CACIQUE gang and the second race was won by Nico and Rina Cubria. The Rossi brother's on SHARK are still lurking and waiting for their chance at the lead.  Also, the BA J/24 fleet welcomes newcomer Adrian Segurado.  Next weekend concludes the Autumn Cup at YCA- April 13 & 14.   For more J/24 Buenos Aires sailing information