Fair winds, fair play!
In perfect sailing conditions, the first weekend in June saw an impressive fleet of 32 Contest yachts gather in Medemblik for the 12th edition of the annual Sevenstar Contest Cup, a fine combination of racing and touring attracting a broad range of Contest owners from eager competitor to casual cruiser.
Assembled in the old harbour, the fleet presented a wonderful view of the history of Contest Yachts with the collective including the first ever and also smallest Contest, the Contest 25 Nijntje, right through to the yard’s largest, the sleek superyacht styled Contest 72 Caramel, with pleasingly in the middle four our latest launch, the Contest 42CS, Stella Maris, Tessa, Ernesto and Beluga.
For the racing contingent, two classes, above and below 40ft, competed in five races across the two sailing days. With the mix of experience on the start line, and in a brisk but sunny 17-22 knot southwesterly, racing was courteous but still very keen.
In the bigger >40ft Class, the Contest 42CS Stella Maris took 1st with a very respectable 1,3,2,2,2. The Contest 57CS settled in 2nd having notched an excellent 3,1,1,3 but suffering a setback to 6 in the final race. Third place went to the brand new Contest 42CS Tessa, impressively, just three days after taking delivery. One to watch in the future then!
In the smaller st ahead of sister Contest 35 Dione, to 3,3,1,3,3. But if it weren’t for a DNS missed race-three aboard 3rd placed Skyla, there may have been a switch of 1st having sailed this Contest 31HT to an equal ranking 2,1,2,1 in the four races he did sail.
But it’s all well natured and in the spirit of fun, as was clear from the party mood each night with the almost 170 crew enjoying the delights of the Brasserie De Twee Schouwtjes and Café Brakeboer with the charismatic host Jack Brakeboer, renowned for his regional dishes and endless good cheer! Throw in a good band and a lively time was assured!
For regulars and newcomers alike, the Contest Cup is an excellent chance to meet and mingle with a whole mix of folk with a singular passion, their Contest Yachts… and it’s our pleasure to bring you all together. Until next year, 3-5 June 2016!
