The first World Championship for the RS21 International One-Design Class chose JK Briva Sailing Club in Biograd na Moru. The beautiful town is located in the very centre of the interesting archipelago on the Adriatic coast. Its indented coastline has numerous islands and reefs which offer a challenging sailing area and the perfect racing playground for the RS21 World Championship.
The RS21 family of over 40 crews, 160 sailors and their supporters have come from Germany, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Poland, Lithuania, Italy, Estonia, Australia, Czech Republic and Croatia had their first get together at the official Opening Ceremony with drinks and nibbles provided by event partners Biograd Na Moru, JK Briva and Ilirija Resort Hotels. Joined by locals to celebrate the occasion, the sailors were proud to represent their countries and walk on stage waving their flags as we roll into the first day of racing that kicks off tomorrow. Sailors are rubbing shoulders late into the night, getting to know each other more and sharing stories before they hit the ground running tomorrow on the first day of racing.
Today, racing competitors participated in the official Practice Race of the event. Jack Fenwick, RS21 International Class Activity Manager says, “With the tension of the build-up finally over, almost 40 teams took to the water of Biograd Na Moru to get their first flavour of lining up against the largest International competition of RS21 sailing so far. With the honour of becoming the first RS21 World Champion at stake, no one held back and pushed for every advantage at every stage of the racecourse. Whilst the breeze was higher than on previous days, the local geography created challenging conditions to keep the sailors on their toes. In three words, it’s getting real.”
High-performance racing coach from the UK, Niall Myant, says, “Even though it was just a practice race, everybody brought their best sailing. The fact is, the race finish came down to less than a metre between first and second place, which is a strong sign that this is going to be an intense week of racing.”
It isn’t without incredible partners that an event like this can take place. The RS21 International Class Association would like to express huge thanks to the Ilirija Hotel Resort, Biograd Na Maru town, Harken, Lifejacket Skincare, RS Sailing, Marksetbot, Digital Sailing, More Restaurant and Sangulin Group for their support.
Follow all the action as the event unfolds by checking out the RS21 Class website and following the RS21 Facebook and Instagram.
Photo credit: Digital Sailing
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