South American and European Regattas

166 sailors from thirteen countries are assembling for the IODA South American Championship in Salinas, Ecuador where racing starts on Sunday.

Among the favourites must be Matheus Dellagnelo of Brasil, 4th in last year’s Worlds, Jesse Kirkland of Bermuda, winner of the big Orange Bowl new year regatta in Miami and the very experienced Juan Maegli (Guatemala). But no one would bet against Argentina taking the team-racing event.

Event website:www.optimistecuador.com

Meanwhile in Europe: the seasonal migration of Optimists is under way to the three major regattas. Last year 850 sailors participated in the three events and this year it is reported that over 160 Danish helms alone will travel to Garda.

XXVII Lake Garda Meeting, Italy Website:
www.fragliavelariva.com/regate/3_e/3.html

International Easter Regatta, Brassemermeer, Holland Website: www.braassemermeer.nl/index_uk.html

Easter Regatta, Portoroz, Slovenia Website (not yet active): www.riex.net/easterregatta/index.htm