The 57th edition of La Semaine Olympique Française (SOF) commenced on Monday in ideal Champagne Côte d’Azur conditions, featuring 705 competitors from 59 nations racing over six days. Day one brought light airs ideal for tactical racing, described as ‘chess on the water’ by competitors.
Prominent performances were evident, particularly from Italy, with returning double Olympic champions Ruggero Tita and Caterina Banti leading in the Nacra 17 class. Tita and Banti’s fine form was noted as they completed the day with race results of 2, 2, and 1.
USA’s Ian MacDiarmid, defending his 49er title alongside teammate Nevin Snow, remarked on the conditions, calling it ‘Champagne sailing’. Meanwhile, Singapore’s Maximilian Maeder, competing in the Formula Kite class, highlighted his new perspective influenced by his French coach, Matthieu Girolet.
In the ILCA classes, Ireland’s Eve McMahon excelled, achieving wins in both races of the ILCA 6, while Michael Beckett of Great Britain topped the ILCA 7 rankings following two race victories. Australia’s Matt Wearn faced an unusual start with a black flag disqualification.
Performance highlights include:
– **ILCA 6**: Eve McMahon (2 wins), Rosine Bauret (2nd), Chiara Beninin Floriani (3rd).
– **ILCA 7**: Michael Beckett (1st), Jonatan Vadnai (2nd), Elliot Hanson (3rd).
The Formula Kite class saw Italy’s Riccardo Pianosi continuing his strong run, finishing the day in the lead, while Maximilian Maeder remains close behind.
The 49er category featured competitive racing, with Andrew Molleurs and Trevor Bornarth securing the overall lead, followed by fellow Americans Nevin Snow and Ian MacDiarmid.
With the light conditions challenging yet fair, competitors are gearing up for the remainder of the regatta, aiming for the podium as they navigate the tactical intricacies of racing on the Bay of Hyères.
French Olympic Week schedule
Monday, April 20 to Friday, April 24: Qualifying series
Friday, April 24: iQFOiL & Formula Kite Medal Series
Saturday, April 25: ILCA, 49er, Nacra 17 & 470 Medal Races
Saturday, April 25: 5:00 PM – Prize giving & closing ceremony
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