The tricky very light conditions of the Nordic Championships in Mariehamn continued on the first day of racing in Hankö, where it is supposed to always be windy. The only Finnish team taking part, Lainisalo Sailing Team (FIN 319), had apparently learned something in Mariehamn resulting in a satisfying ninth place after the first day.
The second and third day was a totally different game, with winds up to 12 m/s in choppy wave conditions. The team, used to rather flat sea in Finland was really struggling with the boat speed with results on both sides of 20th as a result. The final position was 21st, a disappointing result considering the position after day one. If nothing else the race was a good learning experience for sailing in open waters and sailing in a larger fleet (26 boats) than we are used to at home. The organizers did a great job, and the social side of the race was super. The team warmly recommends racing in Norway, the only downside is the price level of the country, it is sky high.
Finally the team congratulates the podium sailing teams, NOR 506 (Lek), NOR 400 (Baghdad) and NOR 418 (Rett rundt hjörnet). The lack of other Finnish and Estonian teams led to a situation where Lainisalo Sailing Team rose to second position in the Nordic Ranking series, with a firm grip on first place as the current number one team NOR 307, Betty Ford, is not expected to take part in the final race of the series, the open Estonian Championships in Tallin next month.
Regards,
Martin, Lainisalo Sailing team