The 5.5 Metre World Championship kicked off in Lavrion, Greece, with Aspire leading the pack after three exhilarating races in 15-20 knots of wind. The opening race saw Artemis (NOR 57), helmed by Kristoffer Spone, take the lead, but Aspire (POL 17), crewed by Przemek Gacek, Mateusz Kusznierewicz, and Kilian Weise, clinched victories in the following two races.
After a week of strong northerly winds that delayed training and racing, the fleet finally enjoyed ideal conditions for racing on Wednesday, with big waves and sunshine. In the first race, Girls on Film (GBR 41) initially led but was overtaken by Artemis, who extended their lead to secure victory.
In the second race, Ali-Baba (SUI 224) led early, but Aspire surged ahead at the gate to clinch victory, followed by Ku-Ring-Gai III (AUS 66) and Artemis. Aspire maintained their momentum in the final race, leading from start to finish against Otto (NOR 68) and Girls on Film.
Artemis’s Anders Pedersen described the opening day as challenging yet enjoyable, noting the variable wind conditions and the fun of surfing downwind. Aspire’s Gacek praised the fantastic conditions and the clean starts, which allowed the team to focus on racing without interference.
Looking ahead, the forecast indicates lighter southerly winds for the upcoming days, with three races scheduled for Thursday. After three races, the standings are as follows:
1. Aspire (POL 17) – 5 points
2. Artemis (NOR 57) – 10 points
3. Ali-Baba (SUI 224) – 13 points
4. Girls on Film (GBR 41) – 14 points
5. Ku-Ring-Gai III (AUS 66) – 16 points
For further results, visit the official event website and noticeboard. The championship continues to generate excitement as competitors anticipate the next races in changing conditions.
Results here: https://www.racingrulesofsailing.org/documents/13684/event/
Day 3 Gallery: https://www.flickr.com/photos/fivepointfivemetre/albums/72177720336009913
Event website here: https://5.5classworlds2026.ycg.gr/
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