Regatta news: Eight brand new Bavaria 35 Match for international regatta sport

Sailing boat against boat without pay in front of a large audience is becoming increasingly popular. The America's Cup, which was exploited by the media, did the rest.

For seven years now, Eberhard Magg (Speedwave) from Langenargen on Lake Constance has been the driving force behind this form of professional regatta sailing in Germany. Internationally, his Match Race Germany is now one of the eight most important events in the world.

The event is now gaining a little more profile, as Magg is now replacing the Diamant 2000 yachts previously used with the much larger Bavarias 35.

The 10.85 metre long cruisers/racers, designed by Jakopin & Jakopin and equipped with high-tech Elvström sails, will be delivered in April.

Teams of five sailors per boat compete against each other. According to Magg, this "brings the important crew spirit back into play".

The diamond boats were sailed with only three people.

The first match race of the 2004 season will take place on Lake Constance from 8 to 13 June. The world's top sailors Jesper Radich and Bertrand Pacé have already confirmed their participation.

Further information on the Match Race 2004:
www.speedwave.de or Tel. 07543/964470; Fax 9644755, info@speedwave.de