Sled surged into contention with a decisive victory in Race 2 of the Puerto Portals 52 SUPER SERIES Sailing Week, hosted in the picturesque Bay of Palma. With this win, Takashi Okura’s team now sits in second place, trailing the leaders, Andy Soriano’s Alegre, by just five points.
The race day began with a dynamic weather forecast, prompting the race management team to launch the race early to capitalize on the fresh sea breeze. Sled quickly took the lead at the top mark during the first circuit and maintained a comfortable gap through to the finish line.
Alegre, however, showcased impressive performance as well, finishing second after overtaking American Magic Quantum Racing on the final run—earning a commendable 1-2 scoreline in the first two races of the regatta.
Unfortunately, Race 3 was abandoned due to approaching thunder cells, forcing the fleet back to shore. Nevertheless, Alegre’s new tactician Paul Goodison is already making a positive impact, helping the team move up from earlier disappointing finishes this season.
“We had a great day on the water, with solid communication and teamwork. Paul is fitting in really well, and the family-friendly atmosphere we’ve created has boosted our morale,” said Sebastian Tenghage, project manager for Alegre.
Sled’s victory marks a significant turnaround for owner Takashi Okura, as they now stand tied with American Magic in terms of points after the race win. Strategist Murray Jones noted that their upwind speed was exceptional, allowing them to navigate effectively through the fleet.
American Magic Quantum Racing, helmed by Harry Melges IV, currently holds the third position on the leaderboard, sharing an equal points tally with Sled.
Looking ahead, three races are set for Thursday, promising further excitement in this competitive series.
Puerto Portals 52 SUPER SERIES Sailing Week – Provisional Leaderboard
1. Alegre, GBR, Andy Soriano, 1+2 = 3
2. Sled, USA, Takashi Okura, 7+1 = 8
3. American Magic Quantum Racing, USA, Doug DeVos, 5+3 = 8
4. Alpha+, HKG, Shawn & Tina Kang, 3+8 = 11
5. Provezza, TUR, Ergin Imre, 4+7 = 11
6. Crioula, BRA, Eduardo & Renato Plass, 8+4 = 12
7. Vayu, THA, Whitcraft Family, 2+11 = 13
8. Platoon Aviation, GER, Harm Müller-Spreer, 10+6 = 16
9. Alkedo, ITA, Andrea Lacorte, 6+10 = 16
10. Paprec, FRA, Jean-Luc Petithuguenin, 12+5 = 17
11. Gladiator, GBR, Tony Langley, 9+9 = 18
12. Teasing Machine, FRA, Eric de Turckheim, 11+13 = 24
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52 SUPER SERIES – Pure Performance
www.52superseries.com
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