Sandefjord, Norway
The second day of the WASZP competition in Sandefjord saw moderate conditions and a reasonable sea state on the outer course. This shift in conditions led to a day focused as much on boat handling as strategy, providing a fresh challenge for the 180 WASZP sailors.
Photograph: James Tomlinson
It was a tricky day, with the breeze picking up but remaining patchy during the first 2-3 races. The fourth race saw improved conditions. The sea state on the outer course (yellow fleet yesterday) was substantial, with big rollers coming through. Spectacular images captured by James Tomlinson captured this perfectly.
Photograph: James Tomlinson
Italian sailor Ettore Botticini has demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the qualifying series, securing the lead as the fleet heads into the Gold & Silver fleet races. Hawaiian Gavin Ball follows closely in second place, despite a black flag in the final race costing him valuable points. Spaniard Alberto Hernandez is tied with Ball and sits just two points ahead of Norwegian Markus Berthet, making for a tight competition.
With only 8 points separating the 2nd to 9th positions, the race for the title remains open. Pre-event favorite Magnus Overbeck, currently in 9th place with 29 points, is still in contention.
Photograph: James Tomlinson
Today’s schedule introduces a new format featuring both sprint and marathon races. The sprint racing, a variation of traditional slalom racing, will see each boat compete in three races within both the gold and silver fleets. The distance race will be a spectacular event with all 180 boats starting together and racing around the entire Fjord and its islands.
Following today’s sprint and distance races, the event will continue with two more days of finals racing.
In the women’s fleet, Norwegian Hedvig Doksrod holds a commanding lead, currently positioned 17th in the open fleet and aiming for a top 10 overall finish. Marie Butler Wang has moved into second place, and USA’s Pearl Lattanzi is now in third. The competition for the podium is fierce, with nine women qualifying for the Gold Fleet.
Photograph: James Tomlinson
Francesco Carrieri leads the 6.9m class, although the competition for the podium is tightening. Tommaso and Rebecca Geiger currently hold second and third positions, respectively, but strong performances from local sailor Martinius Hopstock, Italy’s Olivia Castaldi, and GBR’s Alice Senior have opened up the series points.
Photograph: James Tomlinson
Division Leaders:
- Junior: Mose Bellomi – Italy
- Youth: Alberto Hernandez – Spain
- Apprentice: Ettore Botticini – Italy
- Master: Emmanuele Savoini – Italy
- Super Master: Mikel Vazquez – Spain
Photograph: James Tomlinson
The WASZP class continues to attract a diverse range of sailors, including a significant number of masters and super-masters. This inclusive nature is highlighted by the participation of the Datchet crew from GBR, who shared their enthusiasm for the class in today’s video. It shows there is something for everyone in the WASZP Class.
Photograph: James Tomlinson
The forecast for the remainder of the week promises sunshine and good winds, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to this incredible week in Norway. We eagerly anticipate the finals racing over the next three days.
Stay tuned to our channels for continuous coverage of this exceptional week in Norway!
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About WASZP: WASZP is a high-performance foiling sailboat class that has gained significant popularity for its accessibility and exciting competition. The class emphasizes participation, diversity, and retention, making foiling more mass-participatory and widely accessible.
About Sandefjord Seilforening Club: Established in 1890, Sandefjord Seilforening Club is one of Norway’s oldest sporting organizations. Known for its excellent sailing conditions and historic significance, the club continues to be a premier venue for major sailing events.
