The 4th and final day of the 2014 Greek National Championships & Euro Cup, proved to be the most demanding of all.
Before the event, we had asked the wind gods for their help in providing good racing conditions. However, “Aeolus” (Ancient Greek God, ruler of the winds) decided to test us to the limits of skill and endurance. This year, 10 races completed, 9 races in 20-30 knots.
The final day, saw a slight shift in the wind from the previous days NW & N to NE. The NE wind is a little less gusty but it brings waves and chop into the racing area. Akis Chrisoxou the RO, called the fleet to the water for the 9th race of the event at about 12:00. Wind on the course was a solid 28-30 knots with waves/chop. First 3, LAT-23, GRE-28, LAT-0. Race 9 completed, no major casualties, no major damage.
The competitors were given about 45 mins to rest.
The last race of the Championships was in epic conditions. LAT-23 finished as he started, with a perfect score sheet of (10) 1st places. An incredible performance given the conditions. The chances of mistakes in such conditions are always high. Pushing all the way in overall 2nd place was our new 2014 Greek National Champion GRE-28. Nikolas was like a cat waiting to pounce on any opportunity to claim at least one bullet. But Janis sailed a perfect regatta. In 3rd overall was LAT-0 who managed to hang onto his podium position from GRE-19 who finished 2nd in the 10th and final race.
Massive respect to all who raced, finished & survived. This will be a year that none will ever forget. Everyone who took part will have a story to tell of how they battled “Aeolus”. These extreme conditions really do bring us all together with a mutual respect. GRE-969, one of our most experienced athletes declared, “In over 25 years, I have never raced in more challenging conditions” So a big “RESPECT” to all who took part this year.
A big thanks to our foreign racers who made the trip to Greece. It was our pleasure to host the Latvian team, as well as our Austrian champion. They were all very friendly, and never tired of answering questions and discussing various details of our sport with our local riders.
We look forward to next year, and welcome all to come and experience Formula in Greece for 2015.
Good winds to all.
Hellenic, FWA
