Friday, February 7, 2014

J/70 Primo Cup Preview

J/70 sailing off Monte Carlo, Monaco (Monte Carlo, Monaco)-  The second part of YC Monaco’s famous Primo Cup XXX- Trophee Credit Suisse takes place this coming weekend from February 7th to 9th.  After some very challenging sailing conditions in the first weekend for the J/24 class, the twelve-boat strong J/70 class has doubled in size from it’s inaugural participation last year and will be looking forward to trying their hand on the often wavy seas off Monaco’s picturesque harbor.

J/70s in Monaco HarborThe weather forecast in Monaco may not be the promised gentle spring breezes to start, nevertheless there are signs it will improve over the course of the entire weekend.  Starting off on a soggy foot, the teams will have to contend with a wet, WNW cold front rolling through with 6-12 kts winds for both Friday and Saturday.  However, with a bit of luck, as the massive front rolling across Europe blows off into the eastern Med, Sunday could be a spectacular day with WNW winds of 15-25 kts with clear skies and enormous waves— look out for Carlo Borlenghi’s spectacular images from this last day (fingers crossed for some breath-taking footage)!  For sure, the J/70s should have wild, exhilarating rides in front of the magnificent Monagesque shoreline.

The fleet is well represented from across Europe with teams sailing from six countries (Monaco, France, Italy, Germany, Great Britain and Turkey).  Perhaps the most exciting development is that YC Monaco has started a fleet of J/70s and already three YCM teams will be participating in this year’s event!  Sailing photo credits- YC Monaco/ Carlo Borlenghi.   For more J/70 Primo Cup- Trophee Credit Suisse sailing information