Les Régates Royales - Trophée Panerai Cannes, 23.-29. September 2007 www.regatesroyales.com - Regatta Europa 2007 30th September 2007 A successful Régates Royales - Trophée Panerai despite poor weather limiting the racing The 2007 edition of the Régates Royales - Trophée Panerai was a difficult one for organisers and sailors alike. Extremely unusual weather conditions on the Bay of Cannes during the week limited racing in each of the classes making the sporting side of the event an abbreviated affair. But despite the difficulties, the event was a success, especially in terms of showcasing the glamour, passion and spirit of yachting. 81 yachts in the Classic and Spirit of Tradition divisions provided all the varnished wood and shining brass one could hope for. And the 12 Metre Class, represented by 19 boats of all ages, celebrated its 100th anniversary. Sadly, they didn’t get enough races in to complete their centennial world championships, but these old workhorses from the America’s Cup certainly provided thrilling racing during the week. Finally, there was plenty of excitement from the 81 deep Dragon fleet. Thomas Müller’s Sinewave won the championship, but all the talk was on the toll from the extreme conditions on Thursday. Then, two boats in the fleet sunk after filling with water when the fleet was mauled by an extreme thunder squall. That storm resulted in damage across all of the fleets and division, but fortunately no serious injuries. Although all of the sailors would have hoped for better weather conditions for the week, dealing with the elements is an integral part of sailing. All who took part in the Régates Royales this year are eager to sail in the 2008 edition. On Saturday evening, the prize-giving distributed trophies to each of the class and division winners. Of special significance was the Trophée Panerai, which was awarded to each of the seasons class winners of the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge. On Sunday, 58 boats took to the start of the Coupe d’Automne organised by the Yacht Club de France, a ‘feeder’ coastal race that is 24 miles long between Cannes and St. Tropez. The start took place in good conditions with 15 to 20 knots of Easterly breeze. 30th edition in 2008 The 30th edition of the Régates Royales – Trophée Panerai will take place from the 21st to the 28th of September 2008. Sabina Mollart- Rogerson - Copy rights free photographs / all credits: Guillaume Plisson / Régates Royales – Trophée Panerai Copyright © 1996-2016 - SEGEL.DE