Classics regroup

Third running of the rejuvenated IOR Half Tonner Cup starts tomorrow in Dinard

Monday 29 August will see the start of the first regatta of the second running of the Half Ton Classics Cup, a regatta week for old IOR half tonners. The 2005 event is hosted by the Yacht Club of Dinard (FRA).

After the success of the first rejuvenated Half Ton Cup in Nieuwpoort in 2003, the entry list has grown this year to 32 boats. Among them this year is the Finnish half tonner Blues, sailed by Toni Stoschek and crew who usually sail in the Baltic Sea. “This year we found a nice sponsor who paid for the trip to Dinard,” says the skipper with a smile.

Other contenders from far-away-countries are Blue Berret Pi and Dick Dastardly from Ireland, who will be two boats to watch.

The 2003 winner General Tapioca from Belgium will try hard to retain their title. Philippe Pilate, the skipper, got last minute help from Finn sailor Sébastien Godefroid, and of a large contingent of Belgian half tonners who have made it to Dinard.

Meanwhile the French boats will be hard to beat on their home waters: pre-race favourites include Sibelius, Half Red, Aubepine and Free Lance (Half Ton Cup winner in 1983) will do their utmost best to keep the Cup in France.

The regattas will take place in the Bay of Saint-Malo and Dinard from Monday 29 August until Friday 2 September. The final prize giving will be held the premises of the Yacht Club of Dinard on Saturday 3 September at 12.00, in the presence of Mr. Bremans, managing director of Ecover, for the second time event sponsor of the Half Ton Classics Cup.