GP42s to join the TP52s

Audi MedCup to be a two class affair in 2009

In 2009, the Audi MedCup circuit will feature not only the TP52 Class but also will be joined by GP42s. Now into its fifth year, the MedCup is widely regarded as the most competitive fleet racing circuit of its kind, attracting the top owners, skippers, sailors and boat designers alike.

Five cities in four different countries will host the series of regattas for both the TP52s and GP42s over five months from May through to September this year. Racing for the TP52s will consist of the traditional five days of racing with four of these on windward-leeward courses and one coastal race, while the GP42s will have four days of inshore racing. Although each of the events can be considered individually from a competitive point of view, it is winning the overall circuit that is seen as the top achievement.

“We will set up a race course for both classes with six minutes interval between the start of the first fleet (TP52) and the start of the second fleet (GP42)” explains Technical Director, Nacho Postigo. “This way we ensure to provide the best possible racing for the teams on what is, from experience, guaranteed to be challenging competition on the race courses.” Racing at each venue will start with the TP52s, which will be joined by the GP42s a day later in order to allow for racing to conclude for all on the final day of the event.

“We are very pleased to introduce a second racing division to the Medcup Circuit," concluded Audi MedCup Circuit Director, Ignacio Triay. "The MedCup Circuit is the ideal platform for box rule classes and we expect both to benefit from this decision. We are looking forward to accommodate the teams at all five venues and are confident we will again supply them with the highest level of competition and facilities. We expect to see a combined fleet of eighteen yachts competing this year on the Circuit.”

The 2009 Audi MedCup Circuit dates:
12-17 May , Alicante, Spain
9-14 June, Marseille, France
20-25 July, Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
18-23 August, Portimão, Portugal
14-19 September, Carthagena, Spain