It was another standout performance by Doyle Sails at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup 2022 in Porto Cervo, Italy.
The results heading into the last day of racing remained unchanged after the cancellation of the final coastal race due to strong and intensifying mistral winds. All yachts left the dock and were well prepared for a race start before the race committee decided to send the fleet back to the port in the face of gusts of over 30 knots and a strengthening forecast.
After 3 J Class events this season, Ranger has won the Kohler Cup as the top-ranked team this year. A well-deserved title after winning the Saint Barth’s Bucket on their debut as a new team, taking 3rd at The Superyacht Cup Palma, and completed with 2nd at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup.
In the Maxi division, Doyle-powered yachts made up two-thirds of the top three, with Wallycento Galateia finishing in second place and Wally 93 Bullitt in third.
The Mini Maxi 1 division, it was once again a showcase of pure performance with the top four (out of six) Maxis yachts choosing Doyle Sails. Ultimately it was Jim Swartz’ VESPER who was crowned the overall winner with an impressive 9 points after 5 races, five points ahead of second place PROTEUS. Hap Fauth’s BELLA MENTE rounded out the top three with a strong second half of the week; Bella Mente finished two points ahead of CANNONBALL, who faced adversity during the week with a critical crew member requiring medical attention.
Jim Schwarz, owner of the Mini Maxi 1 Vesper: “It’s very special, such a special place, a special regatta. The Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup is the best, it’s as simple as that. We will definitely be back.”
Terry Hutchinson, aboard Bella Mente, commented on the week: “The 2022 Maxi Worlds ended with AP over A. The YCCS and the race committee did an excellent job of getting the fleet racing over the past week and while we were not able to have another crack at it today it was a well sailed week aboard Bella Mente. Hap, Soapy, and Doogie nailed 5 starts getting Bella Mente to the top mark in a 2,1,1,1,1 position. Our boat handling solid all week long. But as we know it is not how you start it is how you finish. We were not able to take advantage of these strong first beats and as always learn from the others performance. The fall will be spent back at the drawing board identifying our weaknesses and working to turn them into strengths. I know we all look forward to the challenge and as a team and family are incredibly thankful to Hap and all that he does for the team. Legend!”
More information and full results here.
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