The GrandOptical Cup, for European national CLUB team-racing champions opened on Friday on the beautiful Lago di Ledro in the Italian Alps.
Thirteen clubs are represented (sadly both last year's champions Taganrog S.C. (RUS) and Spanish champions RCN Gran Canaria are absent due to travel problems). The format is for two pools, of seven and six teams respectively, followed by semi-finals for the two best teams from each pool and a final.
Twenty races were completed on day 1 in light winds. Results to date are inconclusive though Piran (SLO) and Split (CRO) are both undefeated to date.
The event, in its second year, is aimed at increasing interest in team-racing at club level in Europe. Full sponsorship from the Italian eyewear specialist includes free entry, accommodation and meals and Nautivela charter boats, together with valuable prizes for the winning clubs.