Danish Blue’s success in Majorca 27 Mar 2008

Following on from his recent victory in the first Antiguan Dragon National Championship, Poul Hoj Jensen teamed up with Tim Tavinor and Noddy to successfully defend their 2007 Mediterranean Cup win in Calanova, Majorca from the 6th -9th March. Nineteen crews entered; however, Danish Blue had victory secured with a race to spare.

Staying in Majorca 38 Dragons raced from the Real Club Nautico de Palma between 16th and 21st March for the 39th Princess Sofia Trophy. This is a prestigious trophy for the Olympic Classes and, by invitation, the Dragon class.

A star studded Dragon fleet enjoyed eight races in medium conditions for the first four days before a 25-28 knot breeze provided a thrilling final race setting. Danish Blue, this time with Poul crewed by Theis Palm and Noddy, could not be matched in the heavier conditions, taking the last race and overall win.

Presented by King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia, the prizes for all classes might be an early indication of the form of Olympic sailors ahead of the Beijing Games. Britain was well represented on the podiums with Ben Ainslie, Nick Dempsey and Paul Goodison winning their classes and the “Yngling Girls”, Sarah Ayton, Sarah Webb and Pippa Wilson, second in their class. RCYC members should also note Katrina Hughes sailing in the medal race in the women’s 470 class.

We were treated mid week to a presentation by Russell Coutts on his new RC44 class racer. Exciting stuff but not really suitable for the rivers Roach and Crouch!