Sun but no wind

Dutch sailor Annemiek Bekkering and her crew Annette Duetz have been in action again last weekend in their 49erFX. They had a frustrating week attending the World Cup Series in  Hyères France – a week which produced the Sun (for which we envy them), but no wind.

The key to a successful race under sail is to make a great start. If you’re out in front as you cross the line you already have two big advantages:

• you have clean wind;
• …and you can make independent decisions about your sailing course.

Annemiek laments that during these heats she repeatedly failed to get good starts. Light winds added to the frustration.

But although she blames herself she is pleased with the lessons learned – particularly her consistent ability to climb through the pack by the first mark. Deciding the approach to get around crowded marks requires tactical skill and judgement – which you don’t need so much when you’re ahead of the fleet!

She and her crew finished the series in 9th position, out of 39. The next big focus is the World Championship held in Aarhus, Denmark – beginning 30th July – which will be attended by thousands of crews …hundreds in her own class.

Held every four years it is the largest event for Olympic class boats …and an important run-up event to the Olympics in Tokyo 2020. Annemiek is already coming out fighting.

Victron Energy are proud to sponsor Annemiek Bekkering.