October 19, 2019

      “And then I found that water was entering the boat”
      Irina Gracheva shares the details of the first stage of the transatlantic race Mini-Transat – from La Rochelle to Gran Canaria – in an interview with Andrei Petrov

– Irina, congratulations on the successful completion of the stage! How was the race overall? Did something new open for you, or did you encounter exactly what you expected and what you were preparing for?

– Thank you for your congratulations! As for reality and expectations: this, after all, is not my first such a long race, passed alone. At the preparation stage, last year I took part in the regatta from Le Sables d'Olonne to Azores and back, and this is 2 times 1300 miles each. Then it took me 13 days to complete the first part of the distance, so I already had the experience of a long stay in the ocean. However, now not everything has turned out to be familiar to me.

To begin with, that completely unexpectedly for me at the very beginning of the race I was very sick of it, and for the first two days I felt very bad. This condition is not new for me, but during this long season I, as they say, got rid of it, and did not feel much discomfort anymore. And here is such an unpleasant surprise! I think this was due to the fact that in Biscay at that time a wave was observed remaining from the previous cyclone, the direction and large dimensions of which did not quite correspond to the wind in which we were going. And the body reacted in its own way to these unusual conditions. As a result, I barely lasted these two days and could not collectively go through the change of weather fronts, missed the opportunity to compete for a tactical advantage at this first stage of the race.

But then it was time for pleasant surprises. I, with some apprehension, waited for strong tail winds off the Portuguese coast, knowing from my own experience that I can carry a full sail only if I drive it myself. It is impossible to trust the boat to the autopilot when the spinnaker is installed, it is prone to broaching.

Before, I always had to choose: go without rest and carry full sails or lose in speed, reducing windage. However, this time, despite the fact that in gusts the wind reached 30 knots, the boat behaved much more calmly and carried out a full sail quite confidently. We were preparing in advance for this segment of the route just beyond Cape Finister, where wind was expected to increase to 40 knots. The gain really came, though not as large as predicted. I went over the edge – that was right, and we originally planned it. At this time, it turned out that the boat was sailing perfectly under the code-5 storm spinnaker, gliding from the wave, and the autopilot copes well with it. It was harder to go with less wind (about 20 knots), but under a large spinnaker. Here already had to completely switch to manual control. There was a moment when I went without rest continuously for more than 20 hours, including working with sails and taxiing. On the one hand, there are not so many, but after all, there are already several days of journey behind, and several more to come …

– And how do you deal with overwork in race conditions? Just as a motorist does when, feeling excessive fatigue, he stops for 15-20 minutes to sleep?

– Well, the option to “stop” is, of course, not about us … But – yes, you reduce the windage, put on the autopilot and go to sleep. In the situation that I talked about, it was relatively easy for me to hold out for so long without sleep, because I knew that this wind would end soon and I could rest. It was only a matter of time, it was only necessary to be patient. In general, it will probably be right to give rest to the body if more difficult conditions await you. If you know that it will be easier ahead, then it’s better to strain and work properly. It is more correct both from the sports and from the psychological point of view.

With sports it is clear – speed is important. And psychologically it turns out that when you give all your best, you give all of yourself to the race and know that you are doing everything you can, then you do even more. But when you give up, give yourself an indulgence, then later it turns out to be very difficult to agree with yourself: you begin to reproach yourself and scold yourself for this weakness. For single people it is very important to be able to negotiate with yourself. Listen to your body, decide when you need to give it a rest, and most importantly – decide to relax, then do not scold yourself for it.

– In general, was there enough strength for the entire race?

– Yes, and now it’s clear that I acted correctly. And I also liked the strategy chosen for the race: how to go after the Finister, the moment of turn, how to pass the gate, where to meet the wind, etc. It all worked.

– Did you manage to avoid serious technical problems?

– Well, not quite. 300 miles before the finish, I found that water was entering the boat. It turned out that it penetrates the body through a gap in the transom. The fact is that the attachment points of the steering wheel feathers to the transom are additionally reinforced from the inside with plates. The load on the supports during movement is large – on the lower, for example, about a ton. At some point, one of the plates peeled off, and the steering wheel began to push through the plastic. A gap was formed, which expanded over time. There was still a long way to go, and it was necessary to decide what to do: look for some way out directly on the water or go to the shore for repairs. Here, it’s not only a matter of eliminating the leak – if the steering wheel does not have at least one fulcrum, it does not work anymore, it breaks, as the draft is skewed, which ensures synchronized rotation of the wheels. Getting up for repairs is a huge waste of time. What can be done on the go? Significantly reduce the area of ​​the sails in order to relieve the load on the steering wheel … But, for example, even in tacking or gulfwind it does not help, the leak cannot be eliminated.

When the cold front passed, I tried to increase the load on the front sails and at the same time slightly started the mainsail, and inside the hull I made emphasis for this plate from the emergency tiller. I must say, the emphasis rested on parole, literally, on pure friction, but it worked! It was possible to squeeze the gap and stop its spread throughout the body, although it was clear that the whole system walked, “breathed”. I think that the problem arose due to the improper repair that was carried out on the boat before me: the previous owner had already strengthened the transom under the supports, but this was not done in the best way. But in the end, I still normally reached the finish line, and I loaded the boat already to the full. When I was engaged in the elimination of the accident, I was afraid that I would lag behind my closest rivals, but it turned out that I had lost only a couple of miles at that moment.

– Do you already have an idea how to carry out repairs?

– Yes, I understand what and how to do it, but I do not want to do this myself, but entrust the work to professionals. Still, this is a very busy and responsible place, so I want the repair to be carried out responsibly, beautifully and professionally. Using the necessary equipment, tools and materials. The question, in fact, is small, but the consequences can be very serious.

– Does transom seem to be a weak spot on a mini? Several boats immediately faced serious problems associated with this particular constructive part …

“I would not say that.” The problems were different for everyone and just localized on the transom. And in the case of Pavel Rubal, a collision occurred … I would call an electrician the general problem of the first stage. After all, many boats had problems with power plants, many went and finished “on hand”. These problems manifested themselves in different ways. For some, the batteries did not charge; for some, the main power supply failed. On serial boats equipped with lithium batteries, it is forbidden to have a generator operating on methanol, so many go on solar panels. But often those who could take a generator with them refuse it, since together with a supply of methanol it gives huge excess weight. As a result, people did not have enough solar panels, because during the day they are not always at an effective angle, and the charge received with their help is not enough for night work. On the one hand, one can feel pride in those yachtsmen who were forced to steer all the time independently and at the same time showed good results – at such moments even my own achievements begin to seem less significant to me. But, on the other hand, you understand that, to a certain extent, problems with the electrics are the result of insufficient attention to this issue during preparation or a conscious choice between saving weight and reliability.

– Back to the route traveled: the distance is long, the fleet along it is scattered quite strongly. How often have you been in visual contact with other participants?

– Constantly! Within five miles, there was always someone nearby. This is not surprising, since the strategy of passing along the coast was almost the same for everyone – stick to the west. Therefore, I have always observed at least a few rivals on my AIS. At the last year’s regatta, which I already spoke about, the riders had many options how to get to the Azores, so they all went their separate ways, and for a week I didn’t see anyone. And then it was different. To be honest, I’m even sorry that it happened: I like to walk alone, and then, at the intersection of courses, I rejoice at unexpected encounters along the way.

– In general, what information about your position, about the position of rivals do you have in the race?

– We do not know exactly who and how is going – we can only speculate. We see ourselves relative to the general line, we receive by radio data about our place and the places of our rivals, which are determined by the distance to the finish line. But this is, after all, very conditional information that does not allow us to judge who exactly is located where and where it is being sent at the moment. But she helps to navigate. It gives an idea of ​​how successful your decisions are when you compare the change in your position relative to your closest rivals.

– Did you happen to encounter something else interesting, unusual on the way?

– Yes, there was another pleasant surprise related to sails: I was able to significantly improve the speed performance of the boat when driving under a large spinnaker. So, for example, in the backstage, with an average wind strength of 10-12 knots, I managed to go for a long time, keeping up with the new production boats of the Maxi project, which I had never been able to do before. In addition, I noticed a significant difference when moving into a strong wind now and in the spring, when the air was cold. If earlier I could hardly take out the middle spinnaker in a cold wind at 20 knots, now – and I mentioned it above – the boat steadily went under a large spinnaker even in a stronger wind. I do not fully understand the physics of the process, but experienced racers confirm this fact: warm and cold air at the same wind speed exerts different pressure on the sail. They say that in the second stage, when crossing the Atlantic, the air is warmer and a wind of 30 knots will not be a problem at all.

– And what, besides repair, are you going to do in the time remaining before the start of the second stage?

– I would like to have a good rest! Since I was here in the Canary Islands, I will allow myself a short trip to Tenerife. And I will prepare for the transition across the ocean.

Andrey Petrov

905 October 19, 2019 # 9588
                                                    
      
    

Chief Editor

– Irina, congratulations on the successful completion of the stage! As a whole race? Opened for you something new, or you have experienced it exactly with what was expected and what was preparing?

– Thank you for the congratulations! With regard to the reality and expectations: this is not my first such a long race, passed alone. At the stage of preparation, last year I participated in the regatta of Les Sables-d’olonne to the Azores and back, and this is 2 times in 1300 miles. Then, on the passage of the first part of the race it took me 13 days, so the experience of a long stay in the ocean I already had. However, not everything was for me familiar.

To begin with, which is quite unexpected for me at the very beginning of the race I was very seasick, and the first two days I felt very bad. This feeling is not new, but during this long season I’m precaches, and did not feel much discomfort. And here such an unpleasant surprise! I think it happened due to the fact that Biscoe at this time, there has been a wave left over from the previous cyclone, the direction and a large size which does not quite correspond to the wind, where we were going. These unusual conditions body reacted on its own. In the end, I barely lasted the two days and are unable to concentration change of weather fronts, missed the opportunity to compete for a tactical advantage in this first leg of the race.

But then came the pleasant surprises. I with some trepidation waited for a strong tail-winds from the coast of Portugal, knowing in my experience that to carry full sail I will be able only in case if she’ll steer. To trust the boat to autopilot at the time, when I raised the Spinnaker, it is prone to bracing.

Before I always had to choose to go without rest and carry full sails or lose in speed, windage reducing. However, this time, despite the fact that in the gusts the wind reached 30 knots, the boat behaved much calmer and full windage endured quite confident. We were preparing to this segment of the path immediately beyond the Cape of Finistere, where the expected increase of wind up to 40 knots. The gain did come, though not as big as predicted. I took him out of the corner – it was the right thing, and we had originally planned. At this time, and it turned out that the boat is going under a storm Spinnaker code 5, glissirovat with the waves and the autopilot copes well with her. It was difficult to go with less wind (about 20 knots), but under the big Spinnaker. Here already had to completely switch to manual control. There was a time when I had been walking continuously for over 20 hours, including work with sails, and taxiing. On the one hand – not so much, but I’ve been at this for several days, and there are several…

– How do race conditions, to cope with the fatigue? In the same way as does a motorist, when, feeling excessive fatigue, stop for 15-20 minutes to sleep?

– Well, the option “stop” is certainly not about us… But Yes, reduce windage, put on autopilot and go to sleep. In that situation, which I told him I was relatively easy to survive so long without sleep, because I knew that soon this wind will end, and I can relax. It was only a matter of time, it only required patience. Overall, probably the right will give rest to your body, if you continue waiting for more complex conditions. If you know what’s ahead will be easier, then it is a good strain and work. Correct and athletic, and from a psychological point of view.

With sports clear – speed is important. But psychologically, it turns out that when you give, give everything for the race and know what you are doing all you can, then make even more. But when you give up, give yourself some slack, it later proves very difficult to negotiate with them: you start too hard on myself and to blame for this weakness. For singles it is very important to be able to negotiate with yourself. To listen to your body to decide when to let him rest, and most importantly – determined to relax, then do not blame yourself for that.

– In General, power for the whole race enough?

– Yes, and it is now clear that I acted properly. The selected race strategy I also liked: how to go after the Finistère, the moment of rotation, such as passing a gate, where to meet wind, etc. it All worked.

Serious technical problems have been avoided?

– Well, not quite. Miles in 300 to go I found that the boat enters the water. It turned out that she enters the hull through a crack in the transom. The fact that the attachment of the feathers of the helm to the transom from the inside is additionally reinforced by plates. The load on the supports during movement is large on the bottom, for example, about a ton. At some point there was a detachment of one of the plates, and the wheel began to push plastic. A crack that over time expanded. To go had for a long time, and I had to decide what to do: look for a way out right on the water or head to shore for repair. There’s not only a matter of eliminate the leak – if the steering is not at least one pivot point, it is no longer working, broken, because of the skewed traction, which ensures the synchronism of rotation of wheels. Get in repairs – a huge waste of time. And what can be done on the go? Greatly reduce sail area to relieve the load on the wheel… But, for example, in tacking or galfvind even that won’t help flow to fix will not work.

When there was a cold front, I have tried to increase the load on the front of the sail and at the same time a little sharefile grotto, and inside the case made emergency tiller stops under the plate. I must say, guard was kept on parole, literally, on pure friction, but it worked! Managed to pull the gap and stop its spread in the body, although it was evident that the whole system is broken, “breathe”. I think your problem is related to improper fixation, which was held at the boat before me: the previous owner had already reinforced the transom under the pillars, but it is made was not the best way. And I, in the end, it normally reached the finish line, and loaded the boat is already full. When engaged in elimination of accidents, feared that significantly lag behind its closest rivals, but it turned out that lost in this moment just a couple of miles.

– Do you already have an idea how to repair?

– Yes, I understand that and how to do it, but I will not myself do it, and to entrust the work to professionals. Still, it is a very loaded and responsible, so I want the repair was carried out responsibly, beautifully and professionally. Using the necessary equipment, tools and materials. The question, really, small but the consequences can be very serious.

Sounds like the transom is a weak spot on a “mini”? Several boats encountered serious problems with this constructive part…

– I wouldn’t say that. The problems were all different and just localized to the transom. And in the case of Paul Rubalon generally clashed… a Common problem of the first stage I would call an electrician. On many boats because there is a problem with the power plants, many went and finished “hands”. Manifested these problems in different ways. Someone battery is not charged, someone was denied the main power supply. At serial submarines equipped with lithium batteries, it is forbidden to have a generator running on methanol, so many go on the solar panels. But often those who could take a generator, give it up, so that the supply of methanol it gives a huge weight. In the end, solar panels to people is not enough, because during the day they are not always under the effective angle, and the resulting charge is not enough for night work. On the one hand, you can be proud of those sailors who were forced to steer on their own and showed good results – in such moments, even their own achievements begin to feel less significant. But, on the other hand, I understand that to a certain extent, the problems with electrics is the result of insufficient attention to this issue during training or a conscious choice between weight savings and reliability.

– Back to the passed route: long distance fleet there are quite. How often were you in visual contact with other participants?

– Constantly! Within five miles there is always someone was. This is not surprising, as the strategy of passing along the coast were all about the same – stick to the West. So at least a few opponents on your Aisa I always watched. On the last year’s regatta, which I have already said, the riders had a lot of options on how to get to the Azores, so all dispersed in different directions, and I generally didn’t see anyone. And then everything was different. To be honest, I feel sorry that it happened: I like to walk alone, and then, upon crossing courses, enjoy unexpected meetings on the way.

– In General, what information about their situation, about the position of rivals you have in the race?

We don’t know who and how it goes – I can only assume. We see ourselves relative to the General line of the received radio data about their place and places rivals, which are determined by the distance to the finish line. But this is very conventional information, not allowing to judge about who-where exactly is and where it’s heading at the moment. But it helps to navigate. It gives an idea of how successful certain your decisions, when you compare the change of their position relative to their closest rivals.

– Something interesting, unusual happened to encounter on the way?

– Yes, there was another pleasant surprise associated with the sails: I was able to significantly improve the speed performance of the boat when moving under the big Spinnaker. For example, in the backstay, with an average power of the wind 10-12 knots, I was able for a long time to go, keeping up with new production boats of the project “Maxi”, something it never used to happen. In addition, I noticed a significant difference when driving in a strong wind now and spring, when the air was cold. If earlier I can barely stand medium Spinnaker in the cold wind at 20 knots, now – and I mentioned this above – the boat is stable was under a big Spinnaker even in stronger winds. I don’t fully understand the physics of the process, but experienced riders attest to this fact: warm and cold air at the same speed as the wind exerts different pressure on the sail. They say that in the second stage, when crossing the Atlantic, the air even warmer, and the wind in 30 knots no problem.

– And what, in addition to repair, you are going to do in the remaining before the start of the second stage time?

– I would like to have a good rest! Since I was here, in the Canary Islands, allow yourself a small trip to Tenerife. And I’ll be ready to move across the ocean.

Andrei Petrov

September 4, 2019

      "The water area is beautiful, the yacht club is even better!"
      On September 6, the opening ceremony of the Russian championship in the classes “Optimist”, “Cadet” and “Zoom 8” will be held in the Togliatti yacht club “Friendship”.

Last year, the Russian championship, also held in Togliatti, broke the record for the number of participants. In the class "Optimist" 309 athletes were declared, in the classes "Cadet" and "Zoom 8" – 45 and 54, respectively. It is expected that this year the record will again be broken.

“The championship of Russia in the Optimist class is the most important event of this season,” says Vladimir Lyubomirov, president of the Optimist Class Association. – The strongest athletes from all over Russia will take part in it. Every year the class is growing. Five years ago, we could not imagine that so many athletes would participate in all-Russian regattas. It is very important that the upcoming championship of Russia was held at a high level. As part of the championship, we plan to hold a coaching council and a meeting of the Presidium of the Optimist Association, discuss selection criteria, appoint a new executive director of the Association and solve a number of pressing issues ahead of the winter training season.

Yachtsmen from more than 40 cities of Russia will come to Togliatti. Competitions are held in the water area of ​​the Kuibyshev reservoir. In the classes "Optimist" and "Cadet" boys and girls aged 9 to 16 years old compete, in the class "Zoom 8" – juniors and juniors up to 20 years old.

“The water area is beautiful, the Druzhba yacht club is even better,” says Vadim Mekhanikov, chief judge of the regatta. – This is a yacht club of international level. We have few such clubs. As the trend of recent years shows, every year more and more athletes participate in the championship of Russia. Last year there were more than 300 Optimist boats. This year we expect more to come.

The organizers plan to hold 12 races – six qualifying and the same final. The race committee will give up to three starts per day.

The Russian Championship in Tolyatti is one of the stages in the selection of the strongest athletes for the national teams of Russia in the Optimist class for the 2020 World and European Championships.

Last year, St. Petersburg athletes – Danila Ivanov and Alexandra Lukoyanova (both Krestovsky Island) won the regatta. Now yachtsmen perform in pre-Olympic classes. At the end of last season, Danila transferred to the crew in the 29er class, and Alexander – on the Laser 4.7.

For many young athletes, the Russian championship in the Optimist, Cadet, and Zoom 8 classes may be the final before moving to the youth class.

This year, athletes from St. Petersburg also claim high places. At the last championship of St. Petersburg, the leading positions were occupied by racers from the Academy of Sailing and Rautu – Kirill Shunenkov, Nikita Chernykh and Daniil Perchik. Among the girls, Alisa Ivanovskaya, Marina Babkina and Yulia Naymushina performed best. In Togliatti, a serious fight will be imposed on them by local athletes, as well as racers from Moscow and the Moscow region.

Competition Program:

September 5 – registration day

10.00 – 19.00 – day of arrival, registration, measurement of yachts, official training;

6 September

11.00 – opening ceremony of the competition;

13.00 – start of the first race;

September 7 – 10 – racing days

11.00 – planned start time;

September 9 – Presidium meeting and coaching council of the Optimist Association (Place of the Friendship Yacht Club, the time of each event will be announced additionally).

10 September

15.00 – start time of the last race;

18.00 – awarding ceremony

September 11 – departure day

159 September 4, 2019 # 9436
                                                    
      
    

Chief Editor

August 6, 2019

      “It's really cool on the water!”

On August 5, in the park of the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg, the opening ceremony of the world championship for windsurfing among juniors took place and passed training races.

On the registration day, the participants of the World Championship in RS: X class among juniors learned what a classic St. Petersburg summer is. Strong wind (up to 20 knots in gusts), low air temperature (15 degrees) and cold water (18 degrees) – these are the three main companions of windsurfers on training races.

And if the weather hardly pleased the guests of the racing village, then the athletes themselves glowed with happiness. In quite extreme weather conditions for the summer, they chased enough, cheerfully planed and checked the equipment before the races. After several races on the water, the guys returned a little tired, but happy.

Frenchman Fabien Pianaza – the main favorite of the World Windsurfing Championship – shared his impressions of the training.

– It’s very cool on the water because a strong wind blows. True, there is no point in drawing conclusions on the training races. Tomorrow there will be completely different weather conditions. This water area and weather suit me, so everything is super, ”said Pianaza, two-time world champion in windsurfing among juniors.

Some riders on the registration day chose a different tactic and stayed on the shore to save energy before the races themselves.

“I didn’t go to the water because I don’t want to get tired of the competition,” says Pole Jan Goralski. – I need more time to prepare the equipment. Everything should be perfect on Tuesday. I want to relax a bit, have fun and morale on the first day of the competition.

The organizers have prepared an extensive coastal program for athletes and guests of the park of the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg. The participants were met by the mascot of the World Cup – Brown Bear. The organizing committee of the regatta decided to follow the traditions and chose as a mascot the world-famous symbol of our country, tested at the home Olympics of 1980 and 2014. The guys reacted vividly to the appearance of the bear, hugged and took pictures with him.

The opening ceremony began with a parade of participants who together passed under the national flags of their countries. 104 windsurfers from 19 countries came to St. Petersburg. Flags of Russia, Israel, Turkey, Hong Kong, Holland, Greece, Spain, USA, Italy, France, Thailand, Japan, Great Britain, Poland, Philippines, Belarus, Cyprus, Estonia and Oman proudly flew over the 300th anniversary park.

On stage, the best young windsurfers of the world, including silver medalist of the world championship Yana Reznikova and current champion Fabien Pianaza, raised the flags of the host country of the tournament – Russia, the general partner of the regatta – PJSC Gazprom, the organizer is the Yacht Club of St. Petersburg and Federation class RS: X.

During the opening ceremony of the world championship in RS: X class, honored guests addressed the athletes from the stage.

“On behalf of the Acting Governor of St. Petersburg Alexander Dmitrievich Beglov, I am pleased to welcome the participants of the World Championships in the Northern and Marine Capital,” said the Vice Governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Kirillov. – It’s no coincidence that the regatta takes place in our city, the most beautiful city in Europe. I would like to wish the contest participants good victories, a good mood and, of course, to communicate with the beauties of our beloved city. I wish you happiness, success and tailwind!

“On behalf of the organizers of the competition, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, I am glad to welcome you here,” said Elena Solovyova, Project Manager of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club. – Every year we hold large international regattas. This year we will organize the world championship in the RS: X Olympic class among juniors. Be sure that we will hold these competitions in the way we would accept the Olympic Games. In the coming years, the reconstruction of our Yacht Club will end. After which we will be very happy to host the largest international competitions and see you in St. Petersburg in the future. For us it is not just a sport. All of you represent your countries in Russia. I hope that you will see St. Petersburg and Russia as we see them and return home with the best of impressions.

“We are very pleased that the RS: X class international association has entrusted the world championship to this beautiful city,” said Vladimir Silkin, President of the All-Russian Sailing Federation. – This is the Northern and Sea Capital of Russia and the first Yacht Club, which appeared 301 a year ago. I believe that you will get an unforgettable experience from racing and a beautiful city. I am sure that all of you will leave here with the desire to return here as soon as possible in the future.

– As you can see, St. Petersburg is a sunny and windy city. I hope that this weather persists for the entire World Cup, ”said Andrews Poxy, international secretary general of the RS: X class. – Special thanks to all athletes who came to St. Petersburg. I also want to thank the volunteers, organizers, sponsors, and everyone who supports the RS: X class. I wish you a great race. But at the same time, this is a great time to enjoy the beautiful views of St. Petersburg.

The bronze medalist of the 2016 Olympic Games and the ambassador of the World Windsurfing Championship among juniors Stefania Elfutina recorded a video message for the participants of the World Championship in RS: X class.

“I'm glad to welcome you to the world championship in RS: X class among juniors in St. Petersburg,” said Stefania. – It is a great honor for us to host such important competitions in Russia. I wish everyone to show the best result and get a lot of positive emotions. Have a nice week!

At the end of the ceremony, participants and guests performed a cover band from Pskov, Drum & Jazz, who performed compositions in a variety of styles (from jazz to popular music) and helped athletes tune in to the right wave before the races themselves.

Alexey Zhirov,

PR-director of the Yacht Club of St. Petersburg

105 August 6, 2019 # 9339
                                                    
      
    

Chief Editor

August 5 in the Park of the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg took place the opening ceremony of the world Cup Windsurfing Championships and were training races.

In the registration day, the participants of the world championship RS:X Junior learned what classical St. Petersburg summer. Strong wind (up to 20 knots in the gusts), low temperature (15 degrees) and cold water (18 degrees) – these are the three main satellite windsurfers on the training rounds.

And if visitors to the race village so the weather was great hardly, the athletes themselves glowed with happiness. In a rather extreme summer weather conditions, they enough was a good race, cheerfully glissirovat and checked the equipment before a race. After a few rides on the water guys came back a little tired, but happy.

Frenchman Fabien Planasa – the main favourite of the world championship in Windsurfing – shared his impressions of the training.

– The water is very cool, because the strong wind blows. However, there is no sense to draw conclusions on the training races. Tomorrow will be very different weather conditions. Fits me the waters and the weather, so everything is super – said Planasa, two-time world champion in Windsurfing Championships.

Some racers in the registration day took a different tactic and remained on the shore to save power before races.

– I didn’t go in the water because you don’t want to be tired before the competition – said the Polish Jan Goralski. – I need more time to prepare the equipment. On Tuesday everything should be perfect. I want to be entertained and morally to be adjusted on the first day of competition.

The organizers have prepared for athletes and guests of the Park of the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg’s extensive coastal program. Participants met the mascot of the world Cup – the Brown bear. The organizing Committee of the regatta decided to follow tradition and have chosen as the mascot known worldwide as the symbol of our country, tested in a home Olympic games in 1980 and 2014. The students reacted to the appearance of the bear, hugged and took pictures with him.

The opening ceremony began with parade of participants, who together held under the national flags of their countries. In St. Petersburg arrived 104 windsurfer from 19 countries. Over the Park of the 300th anniversary of proudly flew the flags of Russia, Israel, Turkey, Hong Kong, Holland, Greece, Spain, USA, Italy, France, Thailand, Japan, UK, Poland, Philippines, Belarus, Cyprus, Estonia and Oman.

On stage, the best young windsurfers in the world, including silver medalist of the world championship Jan Reznikova and defending champion Fabien Planasa, raised the flags of the host country of the tournament – Russia, the General partner of a regatta – PJSC “Gazprom”, the organizer is the Yacht club of Saint-Petersburg and the Federation of class RS:X.

During the opening ceremony of the world championship RS:X from the stage to the athletes addressed the guests of honor.

On behalf of the acting Governor of St. Petersburg Alexander Beglov I am glad to welcome participants of the world championship in the North sea and the capital, – said the Vice-Governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Kirillov. – It is no coincidence that the regatta is held in our city, most beautiful city in Europe. I would like to wish the participants good victories, good mood and, of course, to communicate the beauty of our beloved city. I wish you happiness, success and a fair wind!

– On behalf of the organizers, the Yacht club of Saint-Petersburg, I am pleased to welcome you here, – said the project Manager of the Yacht club of Saint-Petersburg Elena Solovieva. – Every year we organize a major international regatta. This year we organize the world championship in the Olympic class RS:X Championships. Rest assured that we will conduct these competitions as would be accepted in the Olympic games. In the coming years over the construction of our Yacht club. Then we will be very happy to host the largest international competitions and to see you in St. Petersburg in the future. For us it is not just a sport. All you imagine in Russia, your country. Hope you will see St. Petersburg and Russia as we see them and come home with the best impressions.

– We are very pleased that the international Association of class RS:X entrusted the conduct of the world championship of this beautiful city – said the President of the Russian yachting Federation Vladimir Silkin. Is the North and the sea capital of Russia and the first Yacht club, which appeared 301 a year ago. I believe that you will get unforgettable racing experience and beautiful city. I am sure that you will all leave here with a desire to return in the future.

– As you can see, Saint Petersburg is Sunny and windy city. I hope that this weather will continue for the duration of the world Cup, said the Secretary-General of the international class RS:X Andrews of poksi. – Special thanks to all the athletes who came to St. Petersburg. I also want to thank the volunteers, organizers, sponsors and all who supported the class RS:X. I Wish you great racing. But at the same time is a great time to enjoy the beautiful views of St. Petersburg.

Bronze medalist of the Olympic games 2016 and the Ambassador of the world championship in Windsurfing for juniors Stefania Elfwina recorded for the participants of the world championship RS:X video.

– Welcome to the world championship RS:X Championships in St. Petersburg, said Stephanie. – We are honored to receive such important event in Russia. I wish all to show the best results and get a lot of positive emotions. Have a great week!

At the end of the ceremony the participants and guests performed cover band from Pskov Drum&Jazz, which played music in many different styles (from jazz to popular music) and helped the athletes to get into the right wave at races.

Alex Fat

PR-Director of the Yacht club of Saint-Petersburg

That’s only 9
the most unique corners of the planet, water activities which will leave
an indelible mark in the memory of travels to these places.

Sea adventure kayaking in Baja California

As the temperature
water in the sea of Cortez to +27°C, the bathing in the waters will remind you
stay in a home bathroom. This is a great place for marine kayaking.

You will be able to explore the entire coast of Baja California, floating on a kayak by
Grand coastal cliffs and stopping overnight on the beautiful beaches.

In addition, a lot of interesting places here refers to the number of UNESCO world heritage, so
whichever route of travel would you choose, and see there is always something.

Because sea kayaking in these places is among the most
popular entertainment, will not be particularly difficult to find rental only
necessary equipment, including kayaks themselves directly. Discover
unique marine world of the Mexican Baja California!

Kayaking through the traces of the Minoan civilization on Crete

Fascinating
sea Safari is one of the best water activities that may be offered
Crete. Best suited for these purposes, the South coast of Crete, where
dominated by picturesque landscapes and colorful place, familiar to many
popular ancient Greek myths. The starting point, you can choose a small town
Savkin, located on the Eastern edge of the island.

Journey to
kayak along the East coast will allow to study the numerous sea
caves, visit remote beaches and admire the ruins of ancient
temples. In addition, in many areas of the East coast you can meet
the picturesque local taverns, offering travelers read
the taste of local dishes.

Snorkeling and diving in Sri Lanka

Diving Safari in the tropical waters – the best water adventure that can offer
exotic Sri Lanka. This trip will allow you to admire the unique
representatives of the marine flora and fauna of these latitudes, and swim in
door with whales and dolphins.

The starting point of this journey is best
choose the historic port of Trincomalee located on the East coast
of the country.

Swimming on the island of Paros in Greece

For those who
wants to improve the technique of swimming in the warm waters of the Mediterranean, the island of Paros –
the best option. Here you can get the practical course under the guidance of
an experienced instructor.

Doing water sports, you can enjoy
the contemplation of beautiful nature, and also to devote your free time studying
interesting places on the island, including visiting the ruins of the old castle and visit
the uninhabited island of modi.

Weekend on lake Orta in Italy

In the North of Italy
is lake Orta, which is famous for picturesque surroundings and excellent
opportunities for swimming. The best option to explore these places is to rent a boat
and to take a trip on the lake. Water walk can be as
short (a few hours travel along the coast) and
a real adventure for the weekend.

The second option includes a visit to the large island of Orta San Giulio, among
the attractions that include Basilica of San Giulio and built in
19th century Seminary, which in 1976 was transformed into a Benedictine
monastery.

Aquatic adventure in the fjords of Oman

If the old lady
Europe and the exotic Caribbean has become boring, then you can enjoy the water attractions
can be in more unusual parts of the world. For example, in Oman.

The Musandam Peninsula in the Persian Gulf is known for a vast desert with amazing
rock formations red shade of red, in the gorge which the flow
dark blue water. Often these places
called “Norwegian fjords of Arabia”, this is not surprising – some similarities
available.

Adventurous kayaking on the fjords of Musandam will admire
pristine wilderness and visit the many unique coves where
even have a chance to meet the dolphins. In addition, you can rent
traditional boat Arab Dhow and take a fascinating cruise on this
a historic sailboat.

Journey through the fjords of Montenegro

Protected Bay of Kotor, transparent waters of the Blue grotto and Mamula island, known as
Montenegrin Alcatraz, is only a small part of interesting places in Montenegro
which are available for viewing during the journey through the waterways of this
the Balkan country. In addition to the traditional yachting, here you can join and
sea kayaking, which in this country is relevant even for beginners.

A journey through the waterways you can always combine with a tour of the unique
sites on land (there are more than enough!).
Extreme can porekomendovat rafting in the Tara river canyon. In any case
bored in Montenegro just can’t be by definition.

Relaxing stay on lake Fritton in the County
Norfolk

Lake Fritton
offers water fun for everyone. You can just swim in
its waters, and it is possible to use these waters as a platform to prepare for
sports achievements. Typically, this pond is used by athletes for
training for the triathlon.

Aquatic center leisure is located on the territory of country Park, Fritton lake and is
the total area of 5 thousand acres. Swimming is possible year round.
In addition, the Park has a hotel where guests have 9
rooms.

Glacial lake Annecy in France

Of course, the Maldives – a more attractive destination for sailing and other water sports. But still the lake of Annecy in France should not be discounted, because it is more
budget direction, and the chance to meet like-minded people here more.

Scenic Alpine landscapes and the opportunity of seeing their journey on this
a huge glacial lake by boat, yacht or kayak – even though it is not warm the Maldives, but still bright impressions are guaranteed.

Yesterday

      Only here in the water a lot of garbage …
      Here is what the press service of the Krestovsky Island Sailing School reports:

Today in Italy will be the first races of the first stage of the World Cup in kiteboarding in the discipline "Formula Kite".

As the school coach Alexey Chibizov said, before the start our athletes Denis Taradin and Valery Garashchenko had a rich training camp in Tarifa.

– Three days ago, they arrived on the Mediterranean coast and were able to train with the strongest top riders. In addition to the athletes of the Krestovsky Island School, Sofia Kotlyar, Elena Kalinina, Anton Minaev, and Ivan Doronin will also represent the Russian team.

The weather conditions are good: the temperature of the air is approaching 40 degrees, the temperature of the water is plus 26. Unfortunately, there is a lot of garbage floating in the water, which adds difficulty in passing the distance.

98 Yesterday # 9301
                                                    
      
    

Chief Editor

Today in Italy will be the first race of the first stage of the world Cup of kiteboarding in the discipline of “Formula kite”.

As told by high school coach Alex Chibizov, before the start of our athletes Denis Taradin and Valeria Garashchenko had a busy training camp in Tarifa.

Three days ago they arrived on the coast of the Mediterranean sea and was able to train with the strongest top racers. In addition to school athletes “Krestovsky island”, the Russian team will also represent Sofya Kotlyar, Elena Kalinina, Anton Minaev, Ivan Doronin.

Weather conditions are good: the temperature is approaching 40 degrees, water temperature – plus 26. Unfortunately, the water floats a lot of garbage, which adds complexity to the course.

June 16, 2019

      “Water area forced me to break my head”

On June 15, the 2nd stage of the largest All-Russian children's series of regattas “Optimists of the Northern Capital. Gazprom Cup. 79 young yachtsmen from the largest sailing schools of St. Petersburg and Leningrad Region took part in the regatta.

© Denis Razumovich

Recall that the athletes competed in the waters of Klyuchevoy Bay, located near the yacht port "Johannes" (Soviet settlement of the Vyborg district of the Leningrad region). The participants were lucky, the regatta was held in comfortable weather conditions: warm air, wind up to 10 knots. The judges held 6 races: 3 on each day of the regatta.

Along with experienced riders, novice athletes, "cadets" who competed in a separate fleet, took part in the regatta. Some participants of the regatta took the first steps in sailing only in May of this year.

Vladimir Komel, chief referee of the competition: “The competitions turned out to be interesting. All riders, both experienced and beginners, showed themselves well, the water area forced them to break their heads. It is generally useful for young people to race alongside more experienced athletes, they quickly grab, adopt many important practical points from the “oldies”.

According to the results of the whole regatta, Kirill Shunenkov from the sailing school “Academy of Sailing of the Yacht Club of St. Petersburg”, who took the lead from the first race, took the first place among boys (2007 was born and older) and in the overall standings. After a successful second day, another Academician Nikita Chernykh rose to second place. The third was an athlete of the school "Krestovsky Island" (St. Petersburg) Artem Gunker.

Nikita Chernykh: “This is my first prize in the“ adult ”standings. It turned out to cling to the top three due to good speed: I worked on it purposefully. I will try to continue not to drop the bar and continue to perform well. ”

Among the older girls, Daria Savinova from the Favorit sailing school (Vyborg) showed herself the best, silver from Sofia Pusheva (Krestovsky Island), Stanislav Gunker, another athlete from the Krestovsky Island, finished third in the regatta.

Among the younger boys (2008 year of birth and younger) Dmitry Yeryomin (“Krestovsky Island”) celebrated the victory, Pavel Gushchin (Sailing Academy) came second, Vladimir Lyubomirov (another athlete from the Academy) – the third.

According to the younger girls, Yuliya Naimushina celebrated the victory, playing for Krasnoyarsk, Angelina Ivanova (“Krestovsky Island”) – the second, with bronze from Eva Turkina (also “Krestovsky Island”).

Among cadet boys, unconditional first place went to Rodion Shishimorov, second and third places went to Nikita Grigoriev and Luka Kandybin. In girls, Alexander Kondratenko showed the best result, Varvara Yurchenko – the second, Lyubov Denisova – the third. All riders represented at the competition Academy sailing.

The best riders received special diplomas and medals, as well as valuable prizes: speakers and headphones.

Final results: http://opticup.org/rezultatyi-2019-2-etap

The regatta became the dress rehearsal for the Russian national team athletes before the European Championship, which will be held June 22-29 in France. In the 2nd stage, the leading Russian riders took part: Kirill Shunenkov (Academy of Sailing Yacht Club St. Petersburg), Daria Savinova (Favorit, Vyborg), Danila Ivanov and Maxim Bondar (both Krestovsky Island, St. Petersburg) Petersburg).

The yacht port “Johannes” takes on the stages of the series “Optimists of the Northern Capital. Gazprom Cup for the fourth year in a row.

Evgeny Kitayev,

Press Service of the Academy of Sailing Yacht Club St. Petersburg

65 June 16, 2019 # 9136
                                                    
      
    

Chief Editor

Yesterday

      New winged Pogo on the water
      New Pogo Class Mini 6.50 – on the water! Equipped with hydrofoils in the style of the cup yachts of the class AC 75, the novelty, about which we wrote to prepare for launching quite recently, is already undergoing the first tests.

So far – as the developers themselves say – the first tests "look very promising." It cannot be ruled out, they say, that this configuration of hydrofoils will be even more suitable for large single-hull yachts than today's schemes used in the Open 60 class.

106 Yesterday # 9112
                                                    
      
    

Chief Editor