18ft Skiffs - Yamaha and C-Tech dominate European 18's at Lake Garda

by Circolo Vela Arco on 10 Jul 2017 The EuroCup for the spectacular 18ft Skiff held at Circolo Vela Arco has finished.

The crews came from all over the world, but mainly from Australia and New Zealand, countries where the class is more popular.

The New Zealand crews dominated the waters of Lake Garda, showing themselves to be fine sailors of the boats they built and sail. Yamaha (NZL), crewed by David McDiarmid, Brad Collins and Matt Stevens, made no contest of the regatta, remaining in first position for fourteen consecutive races.

Following them were a second crew from New Zealand - C-Tech with Alez Vallings, Eike Ehring and Grant Rollerson, and in third overall was Line 7, the Australian craft sailed by Jonathan Whitty, Aron Everett and James Oorran.

This EuroCup has been a spectacular competition, which was praised by the crews who having finished the 12 scheduled trials with one day to spare - unanimously decided to hold 14 races instead, to take full advantage of the weather and marine conditions of Lake Garda.

A week of racing with solid wind, constantly between 15 and 18 knots, allowed the crews of the 18fters to fly on the water.

The top of the rankings remains solidly in the hands of the New Zealanders, followed closely by the Australians - all the others can only watch. The races were spectacular, captivating many onlookers and locals who, from the shore, watched these light, colorful and fast crafts race.

The organization of the regatta, by Circolo Vela Arco with the support of FIV, has been impeccable and was praised by all the sailors, who hope to have the chance to come back to Arco for other high level sailing regattas.

This shows once again that Lake Garda is a natural arena and is supported by professional regatta management capable of hosting global-level events.

18fter Europeans - Day 4 :



18fter Europeans - Day 3 :



18fter Europeans - Day 2 :



18fter Europeans - Day 1 :