Maxim Paul Wins SNIM Regatta
It was a frustrating final day for the Melges 24 competitors at the SNIM regatta in Marseille, France as they took on heavy swells, left by overnight gales, and light airs as the promised good winds failed to materialise.
One final race (number ten in the series) was completed and for overnight leader Maxim Paul, sailing FRA389 Marsail, it was all about consolidation as he sailed an excellent race to finish second on the water and claim the overall title. Going into the day second placed Andrea Racchelli, sailing ITA735 Altea, who was just one point behind Paul, had looked to be still in with an excellent chance of overall victory. Sadly that hope was dashed when he was declared OCS and he had to be content with an honourable second overall, just two points behind Paul.
Fourth in the race and third overall went to Paolo Brescia, sailing ITA585, while French Class President Denis Infant took third in the race to finish fourth overall.
Top performance of the day went to Estonian Olympic medallist Tonu Toniste, sailing EST780 Lenny, who won the race in style and moved up to fifth place overall.