Multihull Cup 2024 Kicks Off in Impressive Conditions

by Phil Riley 27 Sep 10:10 PDT
27-29 September 2024


Multihull Cup 2024 Day 1 © Sailing Energy

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Multihull Cup 2024 Day 1 © Sailing Energy

The Multihull Cup 2024 fleet was welcomed by fantastic sailing conditions as racing commenced today off the stunning southwest coast of Mallorca.

Sunny skies and a consistent 18-20 knots of westerly wind created an excellent setting for the performance catamarans to showcase their skills at the sixth edition of this multihull festival.

Leading the charge on the water was Lord Irvine Laidlaw’s 80-ft VPLP-custom Highland Fling 18, which completed the 22.6 nautical mile coastal course in an impressive 1:42:29, securing line honors.

Adrian Keller’s Irens 78 Allegra followed closely behind the leader throughout the race, which took the fleet east past the Far de Cala Figuera lighthouse into the Bay of Palma and back, finishing near Illa del Toro less than five minutes later.

After the ORCmh handicap rating correction was applied, Allegra ended the first day at the top of the leaderboard.

A thrilled Adrian Keller stated: “It was an absolutely fantastic day, not just because we won, but due to the great conditions and exciting racing. We were fortunate to come out on top; it was challenging but a lot of fun, and everyone got wet.”

Experienced sailor Paul Larsen, racing aboard Allegra, added: “The day was amazing; it was our kind of weather. It was quite choppy, but we had some excellent surfing, and the course length was just right.”

“Naturally, we’re pleased with the result, and I’m glad it was a close race. All the boats were sailed well, and it was a big boat day, so I’m sure the others will have their moment.”

While finishing in second place, Highland Fling also had a successful day. Tactician Ned Collier Wakefield remarked: “It was windy and rough, but we loved the course, and the boat performed well amidst some tight racing with the other teams— we are very pleased.”

On the other hand, the 60-ft Bañuls Design McConaghy-built Mc2 60 Dragon showcased her abilities under the handicap system, finishing just 27 seconds behind Highland Fling 18 on corrected time and setting the stage for two more days of competitive and spirited racing.

Owner Valentin Piech expressed: “Today was awesome; we had a wonderful breeze and great swells to surf. We enjoyed it immensely.”

Tactician Ben Kelly agreed, saying: “What a fantastic day, though pretty rough for the smaller boats in the fleet. We managed it well as a team, but on the first day out, we broke a few things, so we have some repairs to do. Nevertheless, we managed 27 knots downwind, which is impressive on any day… we’re thrilled.”

Aside from some minor breakages, the only drawback from the breeze was the post-race dock party, which was moved to the Coast by East restaurant in the welcoming and exclusive Port Adriano marina, continuing to host the Multihull Cup.

Racing will resume tomorrow with two scheduled windward-leeward courses, culminating in the finale on Sunday, September 29, which will also feature the celebratory award ceremony at Port Adriano.

www.multihullcup.com

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