Having competed in the 44Cup World Championships for 15 years, Aleph Racing has finally secured the coveted title in the prestigious RC44 one-design class. The championship, run by the Royal Yacht Squadron, turned into a fierce contest between Aleph Racing and Team Aqua, led by Chris Bake. After two days of competition, Aleph Racing entered the final day with a slim one-point lead.
The first race saw Aleph Racing capitalize on a close start, overtaking Team Aqua by a mere three seconds at the finish. The second race unfolded dramatically, with Aleph trailing Aqua at the top mark but regaining momentum to finish fourth, just two seconds ahead of Aqua, who came in fifth.
Heading into the final race, Aleph Racing maintained a two-point lead. In a strategic move, they positioned themselves to leeward of Team Aqua, ultimately crossing the finish line ahead of them, securing the championship with 35 points to Aqua’s 39.
Pietro Loro Piana, who helmed the boat this season, expressed his joy upon winning, stating that it truly hit him when he was thrown in the water—a tradition among 44Cup winners. Loro Piana praised the team’s performance and the quality of the RC44, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the competition.
Italian tactician Michele Ivaldi noted the team’s excellent performance, particularly in the final race where they pressured Team Aqua and executed a strong start. Despite Team Aqua’s frustration over missed opportunities, Chris Bake acknowledged the overall success of the event and its positive impact on the local community.
The final podium places were tightly contested, with Vladimir Prosikhin’s Team Nika finishing fourth overall, just one point behind Markus Törnqvist’s GeMera Racing, who won the second race on the final day.
As Aleph Racing celebrates their historic victory, Loro Piana humorously remarked on their plans for the evening, hinting at a low-key celebration.
About the 44Cup:
Five-time America’s Cup winner Russell Coutts conceived the design of the light-displacement, high-performance one-design RC44 with naval architect Andrej Justin in 2005. Created for top level one design racing in international regattas under strictly controlled Class Rules, the concept and design features of the RC44 are aimed at the amateur helmsmen with professional crews.
#44Cup #the44Cup #Cowes
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