The 57th Semaine Olympique Française in Hyères is nearing its conclusion, with Day 4 showcasing varied results across multiple classes. As Friday marks the finals day for both iQFOiL and Formula Kite competitors, Lauriane Nolot and Singapore’s Max Maeder demonstrated stellar performances leading up to the finals, both securing their places with perfect races. However, the double Olympic champions in the Nacra 17, Ruggero Tita and Caterina Banti, faced unexpected challenges, nosediving during a race and dropping in the standings, illustrating the unpredictable nature of sailing.
On Thursday, the expected easterly winds provided a testing environment, with conditions varying significantly across the racing area, especially for the competitors further out in the bay. The forecast now predicts 10 to 12 knots of southwesterly winds for Friday, increasing later in the day, which will make for an exciting finals atmosphere.
A recap of the Nacra 17 class reveals that Italy’s Tita and Banti experienced difficulties with broken equipment impacting their performance. Their rivals have taken advantage, with Gianluigi Ugolini and Maria Giubilei leading the standings after consistent finishes in the races. The stakes are high for Tita and Banti as they look to repair their gear and make a comeback in front of the crowd.
In the 49er classes, France’s Erwan Fischer and Clément Péquin shone with impressive results, placing them at the top of the leaderboard. They expressed optimism regarding adapting to upcoming wind changes, aiming for further success in the final qualifying rounds, while maintaining excellent communication and mental focus. In the 49erFX, Australia’s Laura Harding and Annie Wilmot continued their march up the leaderboard, moving into first place.
The ILCA fleets saw various outcomes, with Australian Matt Wearn achieving victories to reinforce his lead in the ILCA 7. The women’s fleet also experienced some surprises, with top competitors facing challenges that shuffled the leaderboard. The overnight leader, Australia’s Zoe Thomson, slipped back to eighth
In the iQFoil, two wins out of the four races put Australia’s Paris 2024 silver medallist, Grae Morris straight into the final.
The Formula Kite finals will feature Nolot and Maeder, with Nolot toying with her strategies, having already secured a slight advantage allowing her to rest before the finals. The excitement builds as competitors prepare for the final races ahead.
The finals for the ILCA, 49er, Nacra 17, and 470 classes will take place on Saturday, with competitors eager to secure top placements before the closing ceremony. As always, the Semaine Olympique Française remains a highlight of the sailing calendar, setting the stage for Olympic aspirations and showcasing the best in competitive sailing.
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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