What began in 1975 as a spontaneous idea for a regulars' table is now one of the most important winter events on Lake Constance - and also one of the largest inland regattas in Europe. Back then, the club members of the Deutsch-Schweizerischer Motorboot-Club (DSMC) wanted to find out who could cope with the winter conditions on Germany's largest inland waterway. In the end, 27 boats took part in the premiere.
Lots of sun, little wind
This year, 130 boats were entered to compete against each other in the various classes - from modern single-handed dinghies to fast keelboats and classic wooden hull boats. The start was off Konstanz. From there, they travelled to the turning points at Bottighofen and Münsterlingen and back again.
And the conditions this year were milder than usual. Eight degrees air and water temperature, sunshine and a steady, light wind: these are conditions that are rarely experienced at the "Iron" on Lake Constance. This is a stroke of luck for spectators: the regatta was easy to follow from the harbour, the promenade or the Imperia statue.
David against Goliath on Lake Constance
Felix Dorn from SC Bauen was particularly successful in taking advantage of the conditions. He sat down with his ILCA 7also known as the Laser, against the mixed field. His victory on a 4.2 metre boat against ten metre yachts was thanks to the yardstick system. This allowed the organisers to even out the speed differences between the various boat classes in a single classification.
Behind Felix Dorn, Timo Seifert in a 2.4mR and Jörn Thöne on a Seggerling took second and third place. The fastest boat overall was Elia Armbruster's Vertens cruiser, which completed the course in one hour and 15 minutes.
New safety concept after accident
The organisers paid particular attention to the topic of safety this year. The reason for this was a tragedy that made headlines last year: Two sailors lost their lives during the journey, which is why the 2024 regatta was suspended. For this reason, GPS tracking has been mandatory since this year, not only during the race but also during the approach and departure. Dry suits and life jackets are also mandatory. The DSMC consistently monitored these requirements.
Further news:
Santa hat and Star Wars costume
In addition to the sporting performance, the annual costume competition also caused quite a stir. This is an integral part of the race. Many crews have been competing in costume for years - especially on the cruising yachts. Santa hats, artificial beards or reindeer antlers can often be seen. But more unusual ideas such as a Star Wars costume could also be admired on Lake Constance this year. This creativity is rewarded: the most unusual costumes receive a challenge cup for the "Most Original Crew". A prize that is no less competitive than the sporting competitions.
