Since 2013, Monaco Bay has been the stage of a unique spectacle that attracts many of the very best J/70 crews for the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series.Organized by the Yacht Club de Monaco, these monthly regattas have become a must-do tradition on the winter sailing calendar, attracting fiercely competitive teams from all over Europe.Stefano Roberti steals the limelightFrom the start, a steady 10-12 knot westerly breeze accompanied the 30-plus teams competing in Act III this weekend. The Monegasques immediately had the upper hand led by Stefano Roberti at the helm of PICCININA won two races in a row. His crew included Laser star Jérémy Moutout, who is keeping up the pace after his solid performance in the ILCA 7 World Championship in Australia.
She’s Back! Watch Out for PETITE TERRIBLE!
The Italians on past J/70 European Champion (3x) Claudia Rossi’s PETITE TERRIBLE- ADRIA FERRIES clinched 2nd place, ahead of Sam Poons on CHARISMA V. Bringing up the rear of the lead pack by a whisker were Pierrik Devic’s RAPH SEVEN YACHT and Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio’s G-SPOT, both also from Yacht Club de Monaco, in 4th and 5th respectively.
In the Corinthian (amateur) category, the Swiss on Thomas Studer’s JERRY never wavered in their offensive and easily took the top spot ahead of the Irish on William Twomey’s WILDCARD and the Swiss on Lukas Looser’s JULIETTE. Monegasque Cesare Gabasio on TINN J70 came in 4th and remains at the top of the Corinthian Championship after 14 races. Giangiacomo Serena di Lapigio’s G-SPOT continues to lead the provisional overall standings.
Primo Cup-Trophée UBS in their sights
It’s all systems go now for the favourites who already have the fourth and final Act of the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series in their sights, taking place the same weekend as the 40th Primo Cup Trophée UBS (7-10 March). This major regatta has established itself over the years as the season-opener in the Mediterranean for the one-design elite and 2024 is set to host 70 teams totalling 300 sailors divided across the J/70 and other classes.
