Evniki (GRE) take the Primo Cup in the final race from Il Riccio (GBR)

Once again the Primo Cup – Trophée Credit Suisse confirmed its reputation as a top class event, with variable conditions throughout the three days proving difficult for some, while others appeared to make light of the elements to produce convincing victories. A great start to the season at this first big winter regatta. With a total of eight races, of which seven counted, for the one-designs competing in the first weekend (including the J/24s), competitors had plenty of opportunities to rediscover their reflex actions, sail trimming skills and get the feel of the helm again. The J/24 fleet had 21 registered and 8 nationalities—England, Greece, Monaco, Germany, Sweden, Italy, USA and Holland. The consistency of Evniki from Greece, helmed by Dimitrios Altisiadis, earned the victory after a tight duel. “We are very pleased to be here. This is our second participation at the Primo Cup, and it’s really our favorite regatta,” said the Greek skipper. After a few technical problems (broken pole) during the first day, four-time European Champion Ian Southworth (Il Riccio) placed second, and YCM member Ian Ilsley (St Andrews Securities), European vice-champion 2013, came in third. Also competing in this class were two teams from the Manhattan Yacht Club to take on the best European sailors, with their Commodore Michael Fortenbaugh, who sailed with Mathieu and Nicolas Bouchet, two young sailors of the YCM’s Sports Division, who race at a high level in 470s and Lasers. The first three in each series were presented with the Trophée Credit Suisse and SLAM Advanced Technology Sportswear by Alain Ucari (CEO of Credit Suisse Monaco) and Italian actor Ezio Greggio, surrounded by members of the Yacht Club’s steering committee. For complete information, visit www.ycm.org.