DECEMBER 2012 ISSUE 07
www.matchrace.com
EXCLUSIVE
EXCITINGTIMES AHEAD FORALPARI WORLD MATCH RACINGTOUR MR3 6 0째TALKSTO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JAMES PLEASANCE ABOUT TOWN
BACARDI RECEPTION AT ROYAL BERMUDA YACHTCLUB
MATCH RACE FRANCE REVIEW ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP BERMUDA REVIEW
ALPARIWORLD MATCH RACINGTOUR ISA BOOST FOR MALAYSIAN SKIPPERS SAYS YOUTH AND SPORTS MINISTER
THE CALL OF THE SUN AND SEA AT
TERENGGANU MONSOON CUP TURNS OBSCURE MALAYSIAN PORT INTO HOUSEHOLD NAME
THE TEAM EDITORIAL Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Audrey Lakai
Editor . . . . . . . Graig Nunis, Julia Yeow | editor@matchrace.com Contributing Editors . . . . Rupert Holmes, Dobbs Davis
Leigh Ireland, Maria Hart, Mira Navaretna
Sub Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Craig Mitchell Contributors . . . . Bernard Schopfer, Sophie Claudon
Head, Circulation & Subscription . . . . Match Racing 360°
Subscription Executive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wendy Choo Creative Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kahmein Chong
EDITOR’S NOTE
Art Direction & Design . . . . The Right Agency Sdn Bhd Photographers . . . . . Gareth Cooke/Sub Zero Images
T
he
tagline
of
the
exciting
Monsoon
Cup
goes
“You wouldn’t want to miss it” and true to tradition, sailors and match racing enthusiasts will have an electrifying time
when the usually sleepy-hollow beach town of Kuala Terengganu comes alive this December. Here at Match Racing 360°, we’re pretty excited too about our latest issue, which is filled page-to-page with the latest happenings in the world of match racing. Our team has put together a collection of interesting interviews of key personalities, news accounts and articles that we trust will make MR360°’s latest issue a must-read for match racers, sailing enthusiasts as well as the every day folk with a passion for travel, the great outdoors and the deep blue sea. Catch a review of the Match Race France and Argo Group Gold Cup in Bermuda, and find out more about some of the newest and most promising faces in match racing. We truly believe that our latest edition of MR360° will be your
Loris von Siebenthal/My Image, Chris Davies/
Alpari World Match Racing Tour, Andrew Carter/ Alpari World Match Racing Tour, Chicago Match
Race Centre, City of Chicago, Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Choose
Chicago, LONGPRE Photos, onEdition, Gilles Martin
Raget, Isao Toyama/CMRC, Isao Toyama/BYC
Marseilles Tourism, Maria Hart, Charles Anderson,
Tourism of Terengganu
DIGITAL MEDIA Web Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fadzly A. Wahab
Web Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Afsarudy, Ivan Tuen
Web Design Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nigel Webb
SALES & MARKETING Head, Sales & Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chrissie Chiew Sales Managers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Matthew Strachan,
Alex Carr, Yvonne Cornwell
perfect companion in welcoming the thrill of the Monsoon Cup. Get swept into the wild, fun and exhilarating world of Match Racing. Remember, you wouldn’t want to miss it!
PRODUCTION Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sean Ng
Advisors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Patrick Lim, Peter Gilmour,
James Pleasance
CONTACT US Editorial Send us an email at editor@matchrace.com All rights reserved © 2012. Match Racing 360° and its contents is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed or reproduced wholly or in part without prior written permission. Application for permission for use of copyright material including permission to reproduce extracts in other published works shall be made to the publishers. Full acknowledgement of author, publisher and source must be given.
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DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
03
ALPARI WORLD MATCH RACING TOUR CHAMPIONS COUNTRY
WINNER
VENUE
YEAR
Ian Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpari World Match Racing Tour
2011
Ben Ainslie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpari World Match Racing Tour
2010
Adam Minoprio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpari World Match Racing Tour
2009
Ian Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpari World Match Racing Tour
2008
Ian Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpari World Match Racing Tour
2006-2007
Peter Gilmour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alpari World Match Racing Tour
2005-2006*
James Spithill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calpe, Spain
2005
Ed Baird . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ekaterinburg, Russia
2004
Ed Baird . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Riva del Garda, Italy
2003
Karol Jablonski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stockholm, Sweden
2002
Dean Barker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Split, Croatia
2000
Jesper Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Copenhagen, Denmark
1999
Peter Gilmour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hyama, Japan
1998
Peter Gilmour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marstrand, Sweden
1997
Russell Coutts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dubrovnik, Croatia
1996
Ed Baird . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Auckland, New Zealand
1995
Bertrand Pacé . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . La Rochelle, France
1994
Russell Coutts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Long Beach, USA
1993
Russell Coutts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Perth, Australia
1992
Chris Dickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hamilton, Bermuda
1991
Peter Gilmour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Auckland, New Zealand
1990
Chris Dickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lymington, United Kingdom
1989
Chris Dickson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Perth, Australia
1988
* In 2006, the Tour became the ISAF World Championship
04
| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
CONTENTS
08
TERENGGANU
PLACES
12 REVIEW
ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP
photography by
TOURISM OF TERENGGANU FOR MONSOON CUP
36
ABOUT TOWN
BACARDI RECEPTION AT RBYC
ON THE COVER
PLACES
Terengganu Monsoon Cup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
REVIEW
Argo Group Gold Cup, Bermuda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
REVIEW
Match Race France . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTERVIEW
Ben Ainslie, A Quick Chat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTERVIEW
James Pleasance, Executive Director of Alpari World Match Racing Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
INTERVIEW
Mathieu Richard Back On (The) Tour? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NEWS
RYA Winter Match Racing, UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YOUNG TALENT
Jérôme Clerc, Switzerland’s Rising Star . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YOUNG TALENT
An Olympic future of Josh Junior? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PROFILE
Taylor Canfield, Virgin Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CALENDAR
2012 Match Racing Calendar: Oct-Dec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ABOUT TOWN
More to Match Racing than Just Sailing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SPOTLIGHT
Piccolo Hotel, The Idyllic City Santuary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
06 12 14 18 22 26 30 32 33 34 35 36 38
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
05
TERENGGANU
06
MALAYSIA
| MATCH RACING 360째 | DECEMBER 2012
by
Mira Navaretna
PLACES
MONSOON CUP, TERENGGANU 2012
The call of the sun and sea
Not many would have imagined back when it first started, how the Monsoon Cup would help turn a thenunknown port in Malaysia into a household name when it comes to sailing destinations and an arena where the world’s best sailors showcase their talent every year.
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
07
PLACES / MALAYSIA
Besides being the final STAGE on the Alpari World Match Racing Tour (AWMRT), the Monsoon Cup has generated a life of its own and helped change tourists’ perception of Terengganu
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
MONSOON CUP TERENGGANU
T
erengganu is on the east coast of Malaysia, which is endowed with a wealth of charm and refreshing natural landscapes. Terengganu has beaches, exotic islands, lush virgin tropical jungles, quaint fishing villages and dazzling waterfalls like no other. Miles and miles of white, sandy beaches and crystal clear water stretches throughout its 244km coastline, extending from Besut in the north to Kemaman in the south. Terengganu islands are among the most picturesque and fascinating in the country. Since the first race in 2005, the Monsoon Cup has redefined how match racing events are organised. The focus of the race is not only on the world class battles on the water, but also on land activities for visitors. The wide array of entertaining
MONSOON CUP TERENGGANU
MALAYSIA / PLACES
MAIN PAGE SERENE BEAUTY: Terengganu is known for its breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality OPPOSITE PAGE (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT): TRADITIONAL GAMES: Kite-flying is a popular sport among locals. FEAST: Dine to your heart’s content. LOCAL PRODUCE: Top-quality salted seafood is very sought after. THIS PAGE (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT): RICH CULTURE: Feast your senses to the many different cultural performances the state has to offer. LOCAL DELICACY: The delicious keropok lekor is widely available. ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL: Mega concerts are held throughout the event. MOUTH WATERING: Sample local dishes rich in flavour and spices.
side events such as fishing competitions, Winching Station, traditional games, food kiosks, cultural performance, traditional music, a karaoke competition, children’s colouring competition, mega concerts and more, offer so much for the whole family to enjoy. Besides being the final stage on the Alpari World Match Racing Tour (AWMRT) – as the venue where the ISAF Match Racing World Champion is crowned – the Monsoon Cup has generated a life of its own and helped change tourists’ perception of Terengganu as more and more are now visiting the state during the monsoon season. One example of the many great attractions at Terengganu is Pulau Duyong, which is famous among the locals and foreigners
for its traditional boat-making industry. The craftsmen here at Pulau Duyong still produce traditional wooden sailing boats, which is a dying art form. Among the other points of interest in Kuala Terengganu, the state’s capital, Seberang Takir is one of them. Most of the villagers here earn their living from cottage industries producing the famous Terengganu keropok lekor (a delicious, unique kind of fish cracker), batik motif printing, and drying salted fish under the sun – all done manually! Villagers are friendly and you can greet them and walk in to pay a visit to these factories, (which are in fact huts extended from the house) have a little chat, or even treat your taste buds to some keropok lekor.
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
09
ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP
BERMUDA
FRESH BID FOR GLORY 20 skippers, 16 countries, 121 professional raceRS and many, many new faces come together for a race of a lifetime.
10
| MATCH RACING 360째 | DECEMBER 2012
by
MARIA HART
REVIEW
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360째 |
11
REVIEW / ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP
BERMUDA
Surprises Due to Bermuda’s unique, large format, new blood was invited to the Alpari World Match Racing Tour to challenge and learn from the top sailors in the world. The results? Excitement and unpredictability. This year, a hungry young non-tour card holder from the US Virgin Islands took top place out of the hands of Johnie Berntsson and other top seeds to hoist the 105 year old Gold Cup into the air; a dream Taylor Canfield has had since he was an Opti sailor. Another shake up came from Down Under as lower ranked David Chapman (AUS) surprised even himself by reaching the top 8 for a taste of the prize money. Not bad for a Gold Cup first timer. MORE PRIZES In addition to the winner’s prizes, a trophy to recognise the year’s most improved young match race sailor was awarded. The Jordy Walker trophy, first presented in 2011 is now a yearly award in memory of Jordy, a man with a passion for match racing and a desire to encourage potential and promote the future of the sport. Taylor Canfield also scooped this honour. FUN, FUN, FUN Bacardi once again hosted the Welcome reception and the Official Awards Reception, which provided a great chance to
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP / REVIEW
BERMUDA
greet and celebrate the week. An exclusive invitation was also extended to the ‘Final 4’ teams for a reception at Government House, hosted by the Deputy Governor of Bermuda. A pro-am event mid-week saw sponsors team up with professional sailors in a best-of-3 event, providing an entertaining break in the otherwise highly focussed competition. On the final day of the regatta, The Family Festival of Sail took place beside the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (RBYC) and featured boat rides, the Bermuda sloop, and entertainment for the whole family. All in all, Bermuda had something for everyone. LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Most of the sailors had their start in an Optimist programme. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Renaissance Re Junior Gold Cup – an international optimist race held alongside the Gold Cup to encourage junior sailors. Sixteen countries were represented here as well. ‘Opti-Island’ is the new opti-dock at the RBYC, which was finished just 2 weeks prior to Jr. Gold Cup and can hold 72 Opti boats. Moreover, the RBYC is proud to have recently achieved RYA accreditation. Many of the new skippers invited to the Argo Group Gold Cup this year were thrilled with the chance to compete in the AWMRT and are looking to their future: “I came here to learn; I have half a notebook worth of notes,” commented Magnus Sandberg (Canada/Sweden); “Maybe next year we will try to fight the top place,” hopes Henrique Haddad (Brazil); and finally a statement expressed by William Tiller (New Zealand) and repeated by many of the skippers “Looking forward to returning next year.”
MAIN PAGE HUNGER FOR VICTORY: Taylor Canfield en route to winning the Gold Cup. OPPOSITE PAGE (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT): PREPARING FOR THE BATTLE: Sailors take a short moment for the camera before the race begins. ACTION PACKED: Competitors using their skills to try and bag the coveted Gold Cup. ENTERTAINING: Spectators enjoying the mid-week pro-am event. THIS PAGE (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT): SOUNDING THE TRUMPET: Bermuda trumpeter performing ‘taps’ at sunset Flag lowering. GORGEOUS WEATHER: Guests enjoyed the gorgeous weather Bermuda had to offer. FAMILY FUN: The Family Festival of Sail featured entertainment for the whole family.
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
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MATCH RACE FRANCE
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| MATCH RACING 360째 | DECEMBER 2012
by
LEIGH IRELAND
REVIEW
ENERGY AND EXCITEMENT IN FRANCE It is said that the tense, head-to-head battle of a match race is as much about reading the sailing conditions and the weather, as it is about out-manoeuvring your opponent. Never was that more apparent than at Match Race France.
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360째 |
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REVIEW
MATCH RACE FRANCE
MAIN PAGE Frenetic Pre-Start Manoeuvres; (INSET FROM TOP): Jostling for Position: Going for the penalty. THIS PAGE (MAIN PIC): MARSEILLE MAGIC: The yacht’s before the onset of Day 4 of the race. (INSET): IAN WILLIAMS, GAC PINDAR OPPOSITE PAGE (FROM TOP): MOMENT OF GLORY: Ian Williams and his team being crowned the victors. ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT: There’s never a dull moment for racers and spectators alike at Marseille.
Not quite perfect. WE could have been a bit drier than this. That would have been perfect! IAN WILLIAMS WINNER OF MATCH RACE FRANCE 2012 ON WEATHER CONDITIONS AT FINALS WEEKEND IN MARSEILLE, FRANCE
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
REVIEW
MATCH RACE FRANCE
T
he race village in France’s ‘second city’ was a unique joint hosting of two premier international sailing series’ in celebration of the Marseille ‘Capital of Sailing’ festival. The Alpari World Match Racing Tour and the MOD70 European Tour proved a successful combination as spectators were treated to a showcase of both single and multi-hull skill and engineering. As the Finals weekend came, the strong offshore winds which had generated exciting sailing conditions earlier in the week turned into rainstorms with wind whipping in every direction. Ian Williams summed it up best after being asked about a ‘perfect’ Final win which put him atop the Tour leaderboard. “Not quite perfect. We could have been a bit drier than this. That would have been perfect!”
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
17
by
INTERVIEW WITH
DOBBS DAVIS
INTERVIEW
BEN AINSLIE
Tracking down Ben Ainslie Ben Ainslie is a man with many accomplishments, and Dobbs Davis manages to catch up with him for a few moments to see what he’s up to for now.
R
ECOGNISED as the most successful Olympic sailor of all time with four gold medals and one silver, 2010 Alpari World Match Racing World Champion, Ben Ainslie has been kept busy with both the Olympics and the AC scene. But Match Racing remains close to his heart, and he makes sure to keep abreast of the AWMRT scene. Ainslie said most of his time was spent “getting my head around these AC72’s”. “Right now its full focus on the AC 72’s. They are really different than anything else I’ve done, so I’m once again just trying to learn as much as possible,” he said recently when MR360° managed to catch up with him. However, Ainslie said he looks forward to a time when he can return to do some match racing. “I really learned a lot on the Tour, and it was a really valuable experience. So, yes, I could see (myself) coming back into doing some more match racing. I actually have been following the Tour a bit, and I think among the contenders, Ian looks pretty strong. He’s been here before at this stage and its come through for him, so I think he’s the favourite. But then again I wouldn’t bet my house on it, anything can happen at Monsoon Cup!”
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
OPPOSITE PAGE VICTORIOUS: Ben hoisting up the World Cup when crowned the 2010 Alpari World Match Racing Champion THIS PAGE BEN AINSLIE FOR HENRI-Lloyd autumn / winter campaign
I really learned a lot on the Tour, and it was a really valuable experience. So, yes, I could see (myself) coming back into doing some more match racing.
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360째 |
19
Stena Match Cup Sweden
Chicago Match Cup
Match Race France
Argo Group Gold Cup
Match Race Germany Phil Robertson (NZL) WAKA Racing
Korea Match Cup Björn Hansen (SWE) Mekonomen Sailing Team
Stena Match Cup Sweden Björn Hansen (SWE) Mekonomen Sailing Team
2012 Alpari World Match Racing Tour Calendar: Stage 1 May 23 – 28 Match Race Germany Stage 2 May 29 – June 3 Korea Match Cup Stage 3 July 2 – 7 Stena Match Cup Sweden Stage 4 July 10 – 15 Chicago Match Cup Stage 5 Aug 28 – Sep 2 St. Moritz Match Race Stage 6 Sep 24 – 29 Match Race France Stage 7 Oct 1 – 7 Argo Group Gold Cup Stage 8 Dec 3 – 8 Monsoon Cup
Chicago Match Cup Ian Williams (GBR) GAC Pindar
Langenargen, Germany Gyeonggi, South Korea Marstrand, Sweden Chicago, USA St. Moritz, Switzerland Marseille, France Hamilton, Bermuda K.Terengganu, Malaysia
Match Race Germany
St. Moritz Match Race Korea Match Cup
Monsoon Cup
St Moritz Match Race Keith Swinton (AUS) Black Swan Racing
Match Race France Ian Williams (GBR) GAC Pindar
Argo Group Gold Cup Taylor Canfield (ISV) Canfield Racing
For more information, visit us at
Monsoon Cup Who will win the 2012 Monsoon Cup?
www.wmrt.com
INTERVIEW WITH
EXCEUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ALPARI WMRT, JAMES PLEASANCE
Exciting times ahead FOR THE Alpari WORLD MATCH RACING TOUR Interview with
James Pleasance e xecutive director of the alpari world match racing tour
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
James Pleasance, the new Executive Director of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour, talks to Rupert Holmes about his new role, investing to build the Tour’s global footprint, radical improvements in live TV coverage and the global economic environment.
by
RUPERT HOLMES
EXCLUSIVE
M
R360º: How do you feel about taking on the role of Executive Director?
James Pleasance: “I was thrilled to have been given the opportunity to re-join the Alpari World Match Racing Tour in August this year. I have been involved with the Tour since 2002, when as Sales Director I managed the then title sponsor and procured new sponsors including Champagne Mumm and BMW. In early 2008, I joined Informa plc, where I helped create the Informa Yacht Group, establishing exhibitions and conferences including the World Yacht Racing Forum. I stayed on the Board of Directors of the Tour until I was asked to return full time in August 2012.” MR360º: What does the position of Executive Director involve? James Pleasance: “It includes many of the responsibilities of a CEO, including corporate management and overseeing staff based in London and Malaysia. I also oversee each department, including sponsorship and
commercial partnerships, existing event organisers, new events, marketing, public relations and branding. In addition, I manage the Tour’s relationship with ISAF (International Sailing Federation), the sport’s worldwide governing body, with whom the Tour is sanctioned as a Special Event. We manage the ISAF World Match Racing Championship and the winner of the Tour each year is crowned ISAF Match Racing World Champion. The role requires a great deal of travel to existing and new events – the Tour is a global sports property and it’s important to keep in regular contact with all stakeholders.” MR360º: What plans do you have to bring sailing and match racing to a wider and more global audience? James Pleasance: “We have ambitious plans to grow the Tour and broaden the appeal of match racing. One of my primary objectives is to establish new events that will increase the reach and exposure of the Tour, and the sport, in general. At the same time, we are investing heavily in television production and we are increasing social media marketing. > CONTINUED ON F O L LOW I N G PAG E S
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
23
INTERVIEW
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ALPARI WORLD MATCH RACING TOUR, JAMES PLEASANCE
MAIN PAGE LIVE: 38 international broadcasters in over 150 countries. THIS PAGE Investing heavily: TV Productions and new audience
The live television coverage at events is now simultaneously streamed via our website using Livestream, a community based player that links followers and fans to the coverage much in the same way LinkedIn works. Alongside the addition of new events in new countries, this will broaden our audience – we already deliver highlight progammes from each event to 38 international broadcasters in over 150 countries.” MR360º: What plans do you have for new developments in 2013? James Pleasance: “The global economic environment has slowed our progress to some degree, however, we are delighted to have signed the global forex company Alpari as title sponsor earlier this year in a five-year multi-million dollar agreement. For 2013, we will be working closely with Alpari and our other partners to develop new marketing initiatives, as well as hopefully adding one or two new events. We are continuing to grow our television platform, with new broadcasters scheduling the shows produced at each event – this is important to build our global footprint. We will also be investing more in online marketing, including developing
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the website and social media initiatives. We’re also looking at mobile marketing, including an AWMRT application for smartphones with the ability to stream video clips and footage. With the introduction of 4G, mobile internet is about to become a great deal faster – we will be able to use that to our advantage.” MR360º: Are you happy with the media and spectator reach of the Tour this year? James Pleasance: “One of the advantages of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour is that events all take place close to shore, some within metres of the shoreline. They always attract a spectator audience on shore, with some also operating very high level hospitality programmes. For example STENA Match Cup Sweden, one of the longest running Tour events, attracts well over 100,000 spectators and hospitality guests each year to watch the close sailing action. This year all events have seen an increase in spectator numbers, which is very encouraging, especially as the weather has not always been kind and this is obviously a major factor for outdoor events.
INTERVIEW
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE ALPARI WORLD MATCH RACING TOUR, JAMES PLEASANCE
It has also been interesting to see some of the initiatives to attract spectators, including activities in the event villages such as local competitions, live music, opportunities to meet the sailors, sailing experiences and so on. The overall effect is a lively and interactive atmosphere that helps to attract even bigger audiences.” MR360º: What about plans to increase the Tour’s reach next year? James Pleasance: “Next year, we plan to enhance our own presence at each event with an Alpari World Match Racing Tour village for visitors to lean more about the Tour and the sport of match racing. This year, title sponsor Alpari created a very interactive ‘Alpari Clubhouse’ at each event which was very popular with spectators. The Tour has generated fantastic media coverage this year across online media, print magazines, sports business press and local and regional newspapers. We have a dedicated PR manager at every event to support international media and so that events can focus on their local media markets. We also send a professional photographer to every event to ensure we can deliver the very best images that are available for journalists to download instantly.” MR360º: On a personal note, do you sail? James Pleasance: “Yes I am a very keen sailor and have been since I was very young. I have raced dinghies and yachts for over 30 years, though I could say I chose a corporate career over a professional sailing career! I own a small keelboat on the south coast of England and when time permits in our busy Tour schedule, sail with my family.” MR360º: For you, what are the best aspects about the atmosphere that surrounds match racing?
QUOTE OF THE DAY
BJÖRN AND IAN ARE CLEAR FAVOURITES FOR ME, THEY HAVE A 20 POINT BUFFER OVER THEIR NEAREST RIVALS AND WITH ONLY COUPLE OF POINTS SEPARATING THEM... A MASSIVE PART OF THIS GAME IS GOING INTO THE EVENT WITH THE RIGHT PSYCHE AND THIS IS WHERE IAN WILLIAMS WILL ABSOLUTELY HAVE THE ADVANTAGE.THREE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS SAYS IT ALL AND THIS CONSUMMATE PROFESSIONAL KNOWS EXACTLY HOW TO DEAL WITH ALL THE PRESSURES SURROUNDING HIM, THIS IS WHY IAN WILLIAMS WILL BE CROWNED THE 2013 MATCH RACING WORLD CHAMPION! Dave Swete (of Adam Minoprio’s BlackMatch Racing Team) winner of the Monsoon Cup and 2009 Alpari World Match Racing Tour Champion
James Pleasance: “Match racing is a true test of a sailor’s skill - there are simply two identical boats that race around the course and the first boat across the finish line wins. The basic principles of match racing are easy to understand and exciting to follow. As one boat can also gain an advantage by forcing their opponent into a penalty situation, umpired by on the water umpires, this causes both boats to sail very close to each other in a cat-and-mouse game. This often involves a great deal of shouting from each team and frequent collisions during these manoeuvres. As a spectator, when you are just a few metres from the action – and sometimes even on board as guests can sail as an observer – the racing is very exciting, which certainly makes match racing very unique to the sport. I would encourage anyone to come to watch one of the Tour events or, as a sailor, have a go at match racing yourself. I look forward to seeing tomorrow’s champions sailing on the Tour soon!”
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
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INTERVIEW WITH
MATHIEU RICHARD
Bernard Schopfer
INTERVIEW
mathieu richard BACK on (the) tour? Bernard Schopfer talks to one of Alpari World Match Race Tour’s familiar faces on his achievements and his ultimate goal.
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INTERVIEW
MATHIEU RICHARD
ABOVE MISSING THE SEAS: Mathieu Richard feeling most at home in the sea, hopes to return to the AWMRT Tour in 2013
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T the age of 36, Frenchman Mathieu Richard has been one of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour’s most familiar figures for the past six years, winning seven events, finishing second overall in 2007 and 2010 and third in 2008. Last year didn’t prove so successful (he finished 10th) and he didn’t compete in this year’s Tour. “I saw it as an opportunity to breathe and to think of something else” he says. “But at the same time, I miss it and of course I want to be back in 2013!” Richard used the “time off” to compete in other events: the RC 44 championship, the Tour de France à la Voile (an event he has won four times) and some races on Lake Geneva. He also sailed – and won – the Match Race French Championship, and competed in one Alpari World Match Racing Tour event: St. Moritz Match Race, where he finished second. Needless to say that he remains one of the world’s top match racers, and that some of his competitors were probably quite happy to see him sailing on other grounds. Richard is proud of his achievements; he insists that he owes them to his team (Greg Evrard, Thierry Briand, Olivier Herledant and Yannick Simon). “We’ve been sailing together since 2006 and I am proud of this team. We share a sportive adventure, but also a great human story.”
I saw it as an opportunity to breathe and to think of something else. But at the same time, I miss it and of course I want to be back in 2013! MATHIEU RICHARD ON WHY HE DIDN’T COMPETE IN AWMRT 2012
Yacht racing is evolving fast, and Mathieu’s long term goals remain unclear. Yet there is one thing he’d like to do in the short term: “Win the Tour! That’s one important thing I haven’t done yet.” He currently observes the Tour from a distance, and believes that Ian Williams is the favourite for the title. “He is already at the top of the leader board, and he has always been strong at the end of the season and in Malaysia. He is definitely my favourite.”
DECEMBER DECEMBER 2012 2012 || MATCH MATCH RACING RACING 360° 360° ||
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CAPITAL QUOTE / DATO’ SRIAHMAD SHABERY CHEEK
The introduction of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour to Malaysia has been a big boost for our sailors. The opportunity to race against the best sailors in the world has pushed our skippers to aim higher. This has seen the likes of Jeremy Khoo rise to number 62 in the world, from 548 in 2009. He was 161 last year. Masyuri rahmat is now ranked 110, a rise of 864 spots in the rankings while Hazwan Hazim Dermawan is now 154 in the world. As can be seen, our skippers have made great strides in match racing and I think if they can compete in more Alpari World Match Racing Tour events they can one day challenge for the world title DATO’ SRI AHMAD SHABERY CHEEK MINISTER OF YOUTH AND SPORTS, MALAYSIA
ABOVE: A BOOST TO MALAYSIAN MATCH RACERs: FROM LEFT Jeremy, Masyuri and Hazwan.
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NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED THE NEW EXIGE S CONTACT US NOW TO FIND OUT MORE OR TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE.
LOTUSCARS.COM Official fuel consumption, Lotus Exige S manual in mpg (l/100km): Urban 19.5 (14.5), Extra Urban 37.2 (7.6), Combined 28.0 (10.1). CO2 emissions: 236 g/km.
NEWS / YOUTH MATCH RACING
ABOVE EXPOSING THE YOUTH: The RYA programme aims to re-establish match racing in the UK.
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
RUPERT HOLMES
RYA SEEKS TO REVIVE MATCH RACING IN THE UK
new Winter Match Racing series in the UK has been established as a grass roots programme for youth, women and university sailors mainly aged 16-25 years. This new series is effectively the RYA (the UK’s national governing body for sailing) programme to re-establish match racing in the UK. As such it’s very different from the JPMorgan Winter Challenge Series, a high level event for the world’s best match racers that ran from 2004-2008. The JPMorgan Winter Challenge Series came to an end when the RYA sold its fleet of J/80s in 2008 to buy Elliot 6s for the Women’s Match Racing Olympic programme. It’s those boats that are now being used for the new programme, which will be held at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, the venue at which the sailing events of the London 2012 Olympic Games were held. “The new series will hopefully bring new sailors into match racing and strengthen our National Match Racing programme,” says David Campbell James, the new RYA Chairman of Match Racing.
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The aim is to be able to bring an Alpari World Match Racing Tour event to the UK in the future DAVID CAMPBELL JAMES RYA CHAIRMAN OF MATCH RACING
“The aim is to be able to bring an Alpari World Match Racing Tour event to the UK in the future. An important part of the series will be for umpires and coaches who will be actively involved at all the weekends.” Entries are open to youth, women’s and university teams, which can consist of three or four sailors weighing up to 250kg. It will be held over five weekends, plus a sixth weekend in April for the finals.
ALPARI WORLD MATCH RACING TOUR 2012
NEWS / YOUNG TALENT
Jérôme Clerc
Switzerland’s rising star
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on’t tell Jérôme Clerc that match racing is a tough school: he knows. Famous in Switzerland for his recent successes, including a title of Swiss Match Race Champion, he has learnt humility the hard way at St. Moritz Match Race, finishing last in 2010 and 2011. However, this year saw a different Clerc: more aggressive and selfconfident, winning four matches against Ian Williams, Phil Robertson, Eric Monnin and Josh Junior. Jérôme Clerc has been the manager of Geneva’s yacht racing training centre for the past four years. He skippered the boat “Ville de Genève” at the Tour de France à la Voile and finished 5th overall and 1st amateur. He was also the skipper of the Decision 35 catamaran that won the season championship, ahead of some big names such as Ernesto Bertarelli, Yann Guichard, Torbjorn Tornqvist and many more. Last but not least, he won the famous Bol d’Or Mirabaud regatta ahead of 500 yachts! “Match racing has never been a priority for me”, he confesses. “Yet I love it, and it brings a lot to my sailing skills.” Clerc now ambitions to become a professional sailor, and considers match racing as an option. “I obviously have a lot to learn, and whatever I do, my initial goal will be to make progress. But one thing is sure: I love close contact and I will make my best to make it to St. Moritz in 2013, at least!”
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NEWS / YOUNG TALENT
JOSH JUNIOR
AN OLYMPIC FUTURE FOR JOSH JUNIOR?
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osh Junior comes from a country – New Zealand – where being the world’s no. 2 isn’t always good enough. That’s what he achieved in the Laser class during the qualifiers for London 2012. “We were four, competing for one slot. I gave two years of my life for this, and still didn’t make it!” Born in 1989 in Wellington, Junior is one of New-Zealand’s less known – yet best and most polyvalent – sailors. One year ago, just after the ISAF Worlds in Perth, he decided to abandon the Laser Class and switch to match racing and the Finn class; an odd, yet pretty successful mixture. Junior went on to win the Warren Jones regatta in Perth; he qualified for the Spanish Open and finished third (beating Björn Hansen), which opened the door of the Alpari World Match Race Tour (St. Moritz Match Race). He then took part in the Sail for Gold Regatta, just before the Olympic Games, in a Finn, and finished 18th, which wasn’t bad for a first big international regatta in this class. “My next major goal is the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro”, he says. “But it’s in four years and there’s plenty of time. In fact it’s all down to targeting the right events, and choosing quality rather than quantity. Match racing is a very good school because it teaches you how to behave in a contact situation, how to protect a lead and manage your competitors. I want my team – Wellington Spirit – to become a professional structure and I want us to compete in the Alpari World Match race Tour. I also want to win an Olympic medal in Rio and I am convinced both are compatible. They could even complement each other.”
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
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NEWS / YOUNG TALENT
by
MARIA HART
TAYLOR CANFIELD: ON HIS WAY UP
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T 23 years old, Taylor Canfield from the US Virgin Islands is already a force to be reckoned with. Canfield, who made the Argo Group Gold Cup quarter finals in 2010 but was edged out of them in 2011, came back to Bermuda with a clear focus: to win. And win he did. Not only did he decisively take the historic Gold Cup and $50,000, but was also awarded the Jordy Walker trophy. Taylor didn’t take all the credit for dominating the week’s racing but praised his crew. “It’s a huge concentration effort and also a huge group effort. Dan Morris, Josh McCaffrey, Mike Rehe: Spot-on this week -they’re the core of the team and make it happen.” MR360º: Is it true this is the first time the four of you have sailed as a team? Taylor Canfield: Yes, but I’ve sailed at least 3 matches with each of them and for us to come together as a team, I think we have a pretty good future and hopefully, we can continue on. MR360º: What about the sailing in Bermuda?
Taylor Canfield: A great venue all around and although it’s puffy-shifty and can get tricky in Hamilton Harbour, it’s a very unique style of sailing in IOD’s and there’s no other match race event like this in the world. MR360º: Where do you see yourself in a year? Taylor Canfield: Hopefully on the AWMRT: a tour card next year, make a name for ourselves, develop some sponsorship and see where it goes.
by Jordy’s wife Mary. As Mary told me: “He was brilliant from the start; there could have been no other winner.” Bill Canfield, Taylor’s father who was on-hand to witness his son’s double victory, knew Jordy. So this trophy and the Gold Cup hold special meaning. “I’m so proud of Taylor.” MR360º: When did you start sailing? Taylor Canfield: I was 5 or 6 years old. These guys (indicating his dad) threw me in an Opti when I was younger. At first I hated it actually and quit for close to a year and then all my friends started joining in the sailing community... MR360º: Has there been a specific turning point in your sailing? Taylor Canfield: Yes, there was definitely a big jump for me in college sailing. I became alot more mature, I believe. My coach had a big influence; Greg Wilkinson at Boston College. He just left a tremendous footprint in my life and I realised how serious you need to take it if you want to do well. That was a big stepping stone and I think it’s helped a lot with my match racing. MR360º: Why match racing? Taylor Canfield: I like the whole close, competitive nature of it. It’s always tight racing and it’s really tough and challenges you alot mentally. MR360º: What did it mean to have your dad here to see this?
And the Jordy Walker Trophy goes to... Taylor was also honoured with the 2nd annual Jordy Walker memorial trophy for most improved young sailor, presented
RISING STAR: Canfield and team still out on the water celebrating with Champagne, just having come from their win moments before.
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MATCH RACING RACING 360° 360° || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2012 2012 || MATCH
Taylor Canfield: He’s supported me since I started; glad he could be here. He made this possible for me from the start to finish – not that it’s the finish ...
MATCH RACING CALENDAR REGATTA
START
END
RYA Youth (U20/U25) National Match Racing Championships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richardson Trophy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NJK Season Ends Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Ceilidh Cup Sonar Match Racing Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Riga Match Race Cup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Finale Chamionnat Lle-De France Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Geneva International Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bodensee Match Race Act III – Steckborn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RYA National Match Racing Championships Qualifier 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . GSYS Match 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MCSA Match Race Championship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CHPT De Medlyon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Match Race Petropolis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Busan Cup Women’s International Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakcliff Halloween Invitational . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Championnat De France De Voile De Math Racing Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bodensee Match Race Act V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slag Om Delft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth Match Race – Autumn Wind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Caledonia Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakcliff November 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ladies Only Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Zealand Match Racing Championships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Match Race Brasil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Oakcliff November 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selective Espoir FFV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ribnitz Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selective Espoir Bassin Manche . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Saint Francois March Racing 2nd Round . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RYA National Match Racing Championships Finals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alster March Race Act 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SL 1 Le Havre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . DMTRA Winterserie 2012/13 Stage 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Porto Alegre Match Race Cup – Match Race Open & Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Harken International Youth Match Racing Championships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . November Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Campionato Zonale Fiv Match Racing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selective De Zone St Cast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Musto International Youth Match Racing Championships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Malaysian Match Racing Circuit – Final – Terengganu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pete Sheals Memorial Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SL 2 Le Havre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dave’s December Dust Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selective De Zone St Quay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Monsoon Cup – Alpari World Match Racing Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carlos Aguilar Match Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas Match Races . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RYA Winter Challenge Weekend 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Oct 12 Oct 13 Oct 13 Oct 13 Oct 13 Oct 19 Oct 20 Oct 20 Oct 20 Oct 20 Oct 20 Oct 20 Oct 23 Oct 26 Oct 26 Oct 27 Oct 28 Oct 29 Oct 01 Nov 03 Nov 03 Nov 07 Nov 08 Nov 10 Nov 10 Nov 10 Nov 10 Nov 16 Nov 16 Nov 17 Nov 17 Nov 17 Nov 20 Nov 21 Nov 25 Nov 24 Nov 24 Nov 26 Nov 28 Nov 01 Dec 01 Dec 01 Dec 01 Dec 03 Dec 04 Dec 08 Dec 08 Dec
13 Oct 14 Oct 14 Oct 14 Oct 14 Oct 14 Oct 21 Oct 21 Oct 21 Oct 20 Oct 21 Oct 21 Oct 21 Oct 28 Oct 28 Oct 28 Oct 28 Oct 28 Oct 01 Nov 04 Nov 03 Nov 05 Nov 11 Nov 11 Nov 10 Nov 11 Nov 11 Nov 11 Nov 17 Nov 18 Nov 18 Nov 18 Nov 17 Nov 25 Nov 25 Nov 25 Nov 25 Nov 25 Nov 30 Nov 30 Nov 02 Dec 02 Dec 01 Dec 02 Dec 08 Dec 09 Dec 09 Dec 09 Dec
OCT-DEC 2012
VENUE
GRADE
Weymouth & Portland NSA (GBR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Chicago (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Waters in West of Helsinki (FIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Rhu, Scotland (GBR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Ostas Skati (LAT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Moisson Lavaocount (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Geneva (SUI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Steckborn (SUI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Queen Mary’s Sailing Club (GBR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Lidingo (SWE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Sheboygan (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Lyon (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Rio de Janeiro (BRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Haeundae Beach (KOR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 New York (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Pornichet (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Altnau (SUI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Delft (NED) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Gelendzhik (RUS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 New Caledonia (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 New York (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Hamburg (GER) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Auckland (NZL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Rio de Janeiro (BRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 New York (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 La Rochelle (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Schwerin (GER) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Portieux (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Saint Francois (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Queen Mary Sailing Club (GBR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Hamburg (GER) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Le Havre (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Braassemermeer (NED) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Porto Alegre (BRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (AUS) . . . . . . 3 Scarlino (ITA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Brindisi (ITA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 St Cast Le Guildo (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Sydney (AUS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Terengganu (MAS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Tortola (IVB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Le Havre (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Long Beach (USA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 St Quay Portrieux (FRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Kuala Terengganu (MAS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . W St Thomas (ISV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Brindisi (ITA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Weymouth & Portland (GBR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
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by
ABOUTTOWN
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| MATCH RACING 360째 | DECEMBER 2012
MARIA HART
BACARDI RECEPTION AT THE ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP
ABOUTTOWN
BACARDI RECEPTION AT THE ARGO GROUP GOLD CUP
SPREAD (CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT) SPECIAL GUEST: Royal Bermuda yacht club officers greet the Governor of Bermuda. WARM WELCOME: Ron Stan from Bacardi gives the opening Welcome to sailors. GOOD FUN: Guests at the Bacardi reception
More to Match Racing than just Sailing?
“
Bacardi loves sailors!” announced Bacardi director Ron Stan at the Welcome reception to the Argo Gold Cup. Judging by how busy the guests kept the bar staff, sailors love Bacardi too. Royal Bermuda Yacht Club (RBYC) officers, sponsors, sailors, race officials, volunteers and even the Governor of Bermuda gathered on the Bacardi grounds for a sunset welcome to Bermuda. For many, it was their first time. Ice broken and hopes buoyant, a week of fun on and off the water was foreshadowed. On the water, sponsors got a chance to sail with the competitive sailors in the Pro-Am event where serious sailing was secondary to seriously soaking your opponents. In spite of this, Adam Minoprio managed to lead his amateur Argo crew to victory ahead of the other 6 boats including Guy Carpenter’s boat headed by Taylor Canfield. Aussie skipper David Chapman was teamed up with a Bacardi crew – creating a perfectly matched group with a true grasp of the spirit of the race. Although they crossed the finish line first in 2 of 3 races, their “interesting” interpretation of the race rules left them out of the prizes. I think they won first for fun, however. Also out of the prizes was the Bermuda Department of Tourism boat led by Staffan Lindberg and carrying sports marketing coordinator Jamal Hart. Undaunted, Jamal shared his strategy for next year: “Coming into the finish we only had buckets to soak RenRe, but next year we’ll be prepared with the super-soakers.” The week ended on a posh note with an elegant reception at Government House for the final four teams, as well as select officials and sponsors, graciously hosted by Beth and Deputy Governor of Bermuda David Arkley. To wrap everything up, the Official Awards reception held at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club provided a great send-off to a now well-blended group of people.
DECEMBER 2012 | MATCH RACING 360° |
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SPOTLIGHT
PICCOLO HOTEL KUALA LUMPUR
Piccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur THE idyllic city sanctuary
P
iccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur is the ever-ready best choice for astute travellers. Standing tall in the middle of Kuala Lumpur along the well-known Bukit Bintang Walk, flanked by high-end malls and various means of transportations, it is a one-stop spot that brings everyone to everywhere. Just as the city never sleeps, guests at the hotel can join in the melting pot of fun, vibrant and interesting happenings in KL city, day and night. From shopping to eating to just chilling back with friends at the trendiest spots in town, you can find everything you need here. Piccolo Hotel, Kuala Lumpur consists of 168 rooms, representing a benchmark for new generation hotels that offer subtle yet sophisticated styles that are chic and contemporary in well-designed rooms. The hotel is easily accessible via monorail station in just 5-minute walk and a Hop On – Hop Off pick-up point right outside the premises or take a free bus-ride on “Go KL”, provided by the KL Town Council. The hotel offers rooms that are spaciously generous with clean interiors. All rooms are well-equipped with high-speed internet access, 32’ flat panel LCD TV, rain shower and many more. Its four room categories are the Superior Room, Deluxe Room, Executive Room and Suite Room. During meal times, many hotel guests will be spoilt for choices; to dine in the many F&B outlets, located just a few steps-away.
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| MATCH RACING 360° | DECEMBER 2012
MAIN PIC DELUXE ROOM: Bedding choice of King or Twin ABOVE SUPERIOR ROOM: TWIN BedS
Piccolo Hotel Kuala Lumpur has 1 main function room which can be divided into 4 separate meeting rooms catering for anything from private banquets to meetings for up to 100 people. Address Tel Fax Website Enquiry
: 101, Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur. : 603-2146 5000 : 603-2146 5001 : www.piccolohotel.com.my : sales@piccolohotel.com.my
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