24-30 October 2009
Light winds for the J/24 Europeans practice race on Souda Bay, Crete
Everything took place as it was scheduled today in Crete. The final number of registered boats is 28 from 6 different European countries; Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Hungary, United Kingdom and Greece.
At the Skipper’s Briefing, the 150 sailors clarified the last details of the Sailing Instructions with the Race Officer, Mr Pavlos Skilitsis and the International Jury, Mr.Kostas Tsantilis. After the meeting all the boats sailed for the start of the Practice Race that was given at 15:00 with a very light wind from the South.
Because of the wind conditions the Race Committee shortened the course and finished the boats at the second windward leg.
At 7pm the Opening Ceremony was held, with speeches from the notable persons of the local community, a flag parade, Cretan music and dancing, fireworks and the welcome reception.
Sponsor of the event is the Municipality of Souda. Organizers are the Sailing Club of Chania, the Hellenic J24 Class Association, the Hellenic Sailing Federation, the Hellenic Offshore Sailing Committee, and the International J Class Association. Co organizers are the Prefectural Self-Administration of Chania, the Municipality of Chania with cooperation of the Naval station of Crete, the Port Fund of Chania and the Port Authority of Chania.