The Bay of Palma delivered in full measure today, with 15 to 20 knots of breeze turbo-charging racing at the 2023 Superyacht Cup Palma across the entire shimmering blue arena on New Zealand Race Day.
The Bay of Palma delivered in full measure today, with 15 to 20 knots of breeze turbo-charging racing at the 2023 Superyacht Cup Palma across the entire shimmering blue arena on New Zealand Race Day.
Following a short postponement for the wind to decide its strength and direction the fleet was launched on a racecourse that saw each competitor hitting hull speed at almost every angle of sail. When the spray finally settled Ribelle and Rose took their respective class honours, setting the scene for tomorrow's finale which will decide the recipient of the 27th Superyacht Cup Palma trophy. With both classes starting in reverse order to their opening day results, it was Class A's Ribelle who led the fleet away followed by Pattoo , who later in the race had to retire having suffered technical issues. In the event the modern 33m Ribelle was able to hold off the powerful challenge issued by second placed Svea , who in turn were able to claim victory in the J Class sub-plot over Velsheda . The captain of Ribelle , Federico Biatturi, was delighted with their day out: “It was a great day for us, starting first is a good opportunity as in these conditions it allowed us to stay ahead of everyone. Having some good wind gave us an advantage over the J-Class yachts too which we needed!
“Palma is special, the breeze is special, the people here are special. Kate (Branagh) has been organising this event for many years and knows exactly how to do it well – it’s always good fun and it is great to be here,” he added. “The forecast for tomorrow is for a little bit less wind, for us 15-16 knots is perfect to keep us competitive with the Js, so we will see!”
Today's result leaves Svea and Velsheda tied at the top of Class A on four points, with Ribelle just a point behind heading into the final day.