Brits Lead In Kiel

Twelve X-35s from the Netherlands have entered, including last year's winner, Nic BOL, who is in Kiel to defend his title. Nine boats represent Germany, two from Belgium, three Danish, four British, three Norwegian, two Swedish and one Estonian.

The first of two races were raced on Wednesday in a light easterly breeze of 7-11 knots.

One of the four British entries, Cool Runnings owned by Thorkild JUNCKER is currently leading the Championship having completed the first two races in first and second place. Hermes-X from Estonia, owned by Mati SEPP, is presently in second place with René VILLEFRANCE, from North Sails Denmark, amongst his crew. Closely following in third place is last year's Gold Cup winner, BOL in his Quantum Racing.

The race officer Claus-Otto HANSEN, was thrilled with the disciplined racing he had observed amid the X-35 fleet, and commented, 'No false starts, two excellent courses. This is a good beginning to the Championship.'

Unfortunately the wind went missing at the start of the second half of 125th Kiel Week, and no racing was held in the X-35 fleet. The forecast for Friday was much better, with 7 knots predicted.