Bronenosec victorious in Swan Maxi Class Circuit

by Cailah Leask on 20 Nov 2012 The Swan Maxi Class Circuit, held for the fifth time in 2012, was won for the first time by Vladimir Liubomirov and the crew onboard the Swan 60, Bronenosec. Comprising five events across the season in the Mediterranean, the Russian team had claimed their victory with a win at the Rolex Swan Cup in September 2012. With a score line of 1 – 2 – 1 to count, the new comers were four points ahead of the 2009, 2010 and 2011 champions onboard the French Swan 601, @robas.

Vladimir Liubomirov, Commodore of Saint Petersburg Yacht Club and helm onboard Bronenosec commented: 'It’s a huge achievement for us to win the Swan Maxi Class Circuit. This year has been outstanding, winning the Rolex Swan Cup in Porto Cervo was a huge achievement, especially regarding the fact that Russians have never won this Cup, or prizes of such a high level before in the Swan Maxi Class. We were also so proud to have the chance to compete against such strong rivals and to be able to finish our campaign in the Mediterranean successfully.

Our main goal was to show the highly competitive level of the Swan 60s and we feel that this was achieved with our second place in IRC at the Giraglia Rolex Cup and then at the Rolex Swan Cup. Unfortunately, an issue with the mainsail at the Giraglia Rolex Cup meant that we weren’t able to take first place. Undoubtedly, the success was feasible due to the team’s support from Gazprom.

Even more important for me during this campaign was the teambuilding aspect. As a result of this, I now feel that we have one of the strongest crews and will strive for new results. For me personally, taking part in the regattas organized by ClubSwan was quite a new and exciting experience. I acquired new friends and partners whilst experiencing some unforgettable memories. The organization of racing and onshore program was to the highest level, which is the most important thing for sailors. The warm hospitality of the YCCS was also recognized and greatly appreciated.'

Twenty eight Swan Maxis competed in the Swan Maxi Circuit during 2012, from the smallest Swan 60s, Bronenosec, Emma, Swing and Vertical Smile to the largest Swan 112, Highland Breeze. The Swan 60s proved highly competitive with three placed inside the top five in the final overall results – an auspicious start before they commence One Design Racing season in 2013 with the inaugural year of the Gazprom Swan 60 Class. The Swan Maxi Class Trophy will be presented in February at a ClubSwan event in London.