In the J/70s, the 40+ participants from 11 countries relished the steady northerly and slight chop of the first Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series regatta of 2017. For many top sailors, Monaco’s winter circuit, with monthly regattas from October to March, is not to be missed as preparation for the big June-August meetings (European and World Championships). Yacht Club de Monaco teams clinched the top two spots: Stefano Roberti, European Vice-Champio, with two race wins proved how at ease he is in this fleet, but it was Ludovico Fassitelli’s (Junda) consistency in the front that pipped his rival to the post. Swiss Alain Stettler (Enjoy) completed the podium in third. Final ranking for the Monaco Sportsboat Winter Series: J/70 (4 races)
1st: Ludovico Fassitelli (Junda-Banca del Sempione), MON, 17 points
2nd: Stefano Roberti (Piccinina), MON, 21 points
3rd: Alain Stettler (Enjoy), SUI, 22 points