THE RACE PROGRAMME
Registrations for the 2011 event came flooding in thick and fast this year, resulting in 27 of the most spectacular sailing yachts on the water arriving in Porto Cervo by Tuesday 7 June in Porto Cervo.
The leading shipyards that sponsor the event were well represented this year. Fitzroy Yachts entered Ganesha (returning to defend her 2010 title of overall winner) and Zefira, while Kokomo represented Alloy Yachts, Twizzle flew the flag for Royal Huisman, and Marie did the honours for Vitters. There were a number of yachts from Southern Wind Shipyard, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, including the newly launched 28.6 metre Kiboko. The surprise entrant was Irvine Laidlaw's Reichel-Pugh 82-footer Highland Fling XI, which went on to win the Performance Division.
Defending champion Ganesha lost out on her win because of complications on the first day of racing that led to her starting her engine and being penalised by the judges. She was replaced as number one by Harry Macklowe’s Unfurled, which went on to be the Cruising champion.
Unfortunately the results from Day 1 and Day 3 had to be counted as final, as strong winds prevented racing on the second and final days of the event.
GOLD SPONSOR FITZROY YACHTS' RACE DAY
Fitzroy were lucky to see their race day go ahead, in improved conditions from Day 2. The sailing yachts were supported on the water by a fleet of tenders including some of the finest designs from Maxi Dolphin and C-Tender.
A GOOD TIME WAS HAD BY ALL
Despite the strong winds and cancelled racing, owners and crew had a spectacular time in Sardinia. An extensive social programme for owners and guests included the Loro Piana Owner's Dinner, with a special menu prepared by the chefs of the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Da Vittorio, as well as a beach party at Hotel Romazzino.
For the crews, there was a specially organised Crew Party in Porto Cervo with food, drinks and a live band, hosted by Sardinia Yacht Services. On Day 2, without racing to attend to, the spirit of friendly competition continued as the Italians went for a game of football, while some British, Kiwi and South African sailors played touch rugby.
The next Loro Piana Superyacht Regatta will take place in early June 2012.