Two days of qualifying series with 168 boats on Lake Bourget, Club Nautique Voile d’es Bains, sailors split into three flights of yellow, blue, and red.
The sailors faced varied conditions, beginning with a thrilling, windy start on Monday for the first race. Followed by tricky winds that made setting a course a challenge. Tuesday we saw a short delay as we waited for the wind, which soon transformed into a delightful champagne sailing adventure, featuring a consistent breeze of 15-17 knots beneath radiant sunshine and a stunning mountain backdrop. With five races successfully completed in the qualifying rounds, the thrill was palpable…
As the qualifying series concluded, the gold, silver, and bronze flights were determined, sparking anticipation among sailors eager to see their competitors for the next three days. Heading into the thrilling final championship series, five different nations are vying for the top positions, showcasing the undeniable excitement and competitiveness of the Feva, a boat enjoyed by sailors worldwide.
The New Zealand girls, Sofia Wells and Charlotte Handley, sailing on boat no. 9153, are electrifying the competition, securing four victories out of five races! They’re currently on fire at the top of the leaderboard!
Going into the Silver category, Paul Michaelisis and Sebastian Gsell, sail no. 8782 from Austria, are fiercely leading the pack. Meanwhile, in the Bronze, Nils Schurich and Jan Schurich, sail no. 7934, are making an impressive showing for Austria.
Tim Hancock our PRO commented “We had perfect conditions on the lake, it was good to see such close racing as we go into the final series”.
Sailors came ashore buzzing with stories of the day’s races, eager to share their triumphs and challenges with friends and family. The sailing village was filled with laughter, smiles and animated discussions as teams recounted every tack and gybe, each maneuver a testament to their skill and determination. Coaches offered insights and encouragement, reinforcing the day’s lessons and strategies for the races ahead.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the Mont le Revard in shades of pink and orange, the excitement transitioned from the water to the shoreside celebrations. The sense of community was strong, with sailors from different countries mingling and forming friendships that transcended competition. The spirit of the RS Feva Worlds was alive and vibrant, a testament to the joy and passion that sailing brings to those who embrace it. Sailors gathered for a hearty meal and enjoyed spirited games of basketball, volleyball, and music uniting nations in joy. The sailing village thrived with camaraderie and families, all immersed in the beloved Feva atmosphere that we cherish!
Event website: www.rsfeva.org/2025-rs-feva-world-championships
Written by Chrissie Le Petit
