Day two of the Dubai Duty Free SB20 Asia Pacific Championships, hosted by the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, saw turbulent winds ranging between 18 to 20 knots.
As regular Afloat readers know, despite every effort, Irish boats were thwarted in their bid to attend the event that precedes next week's World Championships.
On February 3 the event continued after a successful first day. As 33 teams embarked from the DOSC harbour, expectations were high for better wind conditions than the initial day.
Team Xcellent from the United Kingdom, helmed by John Pollard, took the lead position. Following closely are Desert Eagle and Kidzink in second and third place, wearing blue and red bibs.
The unmistakable backdrop of Dubai for the SB20 Asia Pacific Championships
Team Xcellent’s skipper, John Pollard, expressed his delight in winning the lead position, "It was a great day. I've sailed all over the world, and here at the SB20 Asia Pacific Championships, It was as good as anywhere. The sun and the wind, what more do we want? Big chop, wind shifts, and a fantastic backdrop add extra joy to this sport."
Addressing the weather conditions, Race Director Alan Ruigrok of Skerries in County Dublin commented, "We saw a consistent 18 to 20 knots held for today's three races and some excellent but full-on conditions for the sailors onboard. Credit to the race management team led by Roger Wilson for starting the race early, considering the weather conditions."
Alongside the thrilling races, families enjoyed the post sailing celebrations in the newly renovated Tentola Village - Activities included Henna art, face painting, a bouncy castle, as well as Six Nations Rugby viewing.
SB20 Asia Pacific Championship 2024 Day 2 Highlights below
