The inaugural Swan Porto Rafael Challenge brought more than 30 yachts from 16 nations to the Sardinian coast. This new event on the ClubSwan Racing calendar combines ambitious competitive sailing with a Mediterranean atmosphere, set amongst the granite cliffs and crystal-clear waters of the La Maddalena Archipelago. Marina di Porto Rafael welcomed owners, crews and guests for a week that combines world-class regattas with the characteristic hospitality of the ClubSwan Racing circuit. Competitors from Austria, Brazil, Croatia, Egypt, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Monaco, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States competed in the Swan One Design classes. The event counted towards the ClubSwan 50 class and, at the same time, as the European Championship.
“Hatari” takes the lead
Marcus Brennecke’s “Hatari”, with Nick Asher as tactician, dominated the ClubSwan 50 fleet and extended its lead in the provisional Nations League standings. Hendrik Brandis’ “Earlybird”, with Manu Weiller as tactician, took second place. Leonardo Ferragamo’s “Cuordileone”, with Paul Cayard on board, completed the podium. The conditions on the first day, with a freshening westerly wind, provided ideal conditions for the start of the event. “Hatari” leads after the opening races, ahead of “Lady Ghada” and “Olymp”. The Nations League is shaping up to be an increasingly close contest in the second half of the season, with every race counting.
The Pavesio brothers triumph in the ClubSwan 36
“Fra Martina”, owned by brothers Edoardo and Vanni Pavesio and trained by Lorenzo Bressani, won the ClubSwan 36 Brilliant. Edoardo Ferragamo’s “Cuordileone”, with Michele Regolo as tactician, came second. Nikolay Burkart’s “Goddess”, with David Chapman, rounded off the top three. After the first day, “Cuordileone” led the standings ahead of “Fra Martina” and “Goddess”. The ClubSwan 36 fleet delivered close battles for position throughout the regatta.
“Gatti” wins the ClubSwan 28
Giulio Gatti’s “Anya” came out on top in the ClubSwan 28 Class. “Play Bigger” took second place, whilst Lorenzo Bressani’s “Black Swan” came third. The ClubSwan 28 fleet did not start the regatta until the third day, adding further excitement on the water. The smallest one-design class added another dimension to the field of competitors.
Severe weather brings the second day of competition to a halt
The second day brought a complete change in the weather. Thunderstorms and unstable conditions forced the race committee to cancel all scheduled races. The fleet remained ashore, and the standings remained unchanged. The atmosphere around Marina di Porto Rafael remained lively despite the interruption. Owners, crews and guests made the most of the social programme and explored the surrounding area.
Back on the regatta course on the third day
On the third day, the fleet returned to the water in significantly better conditions. A steady wind allowed for three races and close battles for position in all classes. The results shaped both the event standings and the Nations League overall standings. The ClubSwan 28 fleet began its eagerly anticipated competition. Friday evening provided a special highlight as the owners gathered for dinner in the picturesque Piazzetta of the Marina di Porto Rafael. The setting, with its sea views and Sardinian atmosphere, epitomises the spirit of community within the Swan family, where sporting achievement and hospitality go hand in hand.
Light winds called for tactical skill
Saturday put the crews to the test with light winds. The challenging conditions called for patience, tactical awareness and precise boat handling. Every manoeuvre and every strategic decision took on greater significance. Consistency across all races proved to be the decisive factor.
Cayard praises the premiere
“It’s always wonderful to come back to Italy,” said Paul Cayard, tactician on the ClubSwan 50 “Cuordileone”. “Seeing a fleet of 25 boats sailing in such a stunning location as Porto Rafael is something quite special. The combination of this incredible setting, the competition and the enthusiasm of the Swan owners and crews makes this event a fantastic addition to the ClubSwan racing calendar.”
Results:
ClubSwan 50:
- 1. Hatari (GER), Marcus Brennecke, tactician Nick Asher
- 2. Earlybird (GER), Hendrik Brandis, tactician Manu Weiller
- 3. Cuordileone 50 (ITA), Leonardo Ferragamo, tactician Paul Cayard
ClubSwan 36:
- 1. Fra Martina (ITA), Edoardo and Vanni Pavesio, tactician Lorenzo Bressani
- 2. Cuordileone (ITA), Edoardo Ferragamo, jockey Michele Regolo
- 3. Goddess (GER), Nikolay Burkart, Tactician David Chapman
ClubSwan 28:
- 1. Anya (ITA), Giulio Gatti
- 2. Play Bigger
- 3. Black Swan, Lorenzo Bressani
Martin Hager
Editor in Chief YACHT
