The International Genoa Winter Contest came to a close, wrapping up the series of regattas that began last January with the Optimist class, followed by the ILCA fleets, and culminating with the final weekend dedicated to one-design boats.
Throughout the entire series, steady winds played a key role, allowing for challenging, technical, and enjoyable racing in every event.
For the final stage, due to rough sea conditions on Sunday, the Race Committee made the most of Saturday’s more favorable weather by launching three races for each of the four classes on the water: H22, J/80, J/24, and 5.50m.
In the H22 class, victory went to Marco Magnaghi’s crew from Associazione Velica Alto Verbano.
In the J/80s, Nicola Odone (YCI) reached the podium aboard Joke.
Among the J/24s, Coyote helmed by Marco Lazzeri (YCI) claimed the top spot.
And as always, it was a pleasure to see the elegant 5.50m yachts on the water, especially with the victory of Manuela V — the historic boat originally commissioned by Beppe Croce in 1961, now sailing once again thanks to the passion of YCI member Guido Tommasi.
Optimist Inter-Zonal Selection
The first qualifying event for access to the National Selections for the World and European Championships took place in Riva del Garda. The next stages, which will be closed-number national selections, will be held in Ravenna (early April) and Agropoli (late April).
In Garda, seven races were completed in 10–15 knot winds, with 166 participants competing for just 41 available spots.
An excellent result for the Yacht Club Italiano’s racing team, which successfully qualified four athletes.
Special mention goes to Giancarlo Postiglione, who finished 6th overall, along with Vittorio Cavelleroni, Carolina Vulcanile, and Leonardo Moscatelli.
Kudos to the young sailors and their coaches, Mattia Bellico and Matteo Malone!
Upcoming Regattas
Genova Sailing Week (March 28–30)
The fifth edition of the Genova Sailing Week returns, rooted in the Club’s earliest regattas. Open to ORC/IRC-rated yachts, this event continues a prestigious tradition.
Trofeo Porto Carlo Riva (March 12–13)
Yachts will race the Genoa–Rapallo–Genoa course, with a social evening on Saturday hosted at the new Marina di Rapallo.
Regate di Primavera – Portofino (March 25–27)
The Yacht Club Italiano and the village of Portofino open the 2025 racing season for large yachts, with the return of the Spring Regattas.
This edition again sees the support of Belmond and Banca Passadore, with races open to all yachts over 50 feet.
The popular invitation-only format has again attracted top shipyards including CNB, ICE, NAUTOR SWAN, and SOLARIS YACHTS.
