From the 8th to 11th of March the “Open Championship of the Republic” was hosted by the Asociacion Mendocina de Windsurf (AMW) on Potrerillos Lake, near Mendoza in the Argentine. [more]
The newly created lake, formed by the damming of the River Mendoza, is surrounded by hills and lies below the stunning backdrop of the Andes mountain range.
The geography and climatic conditions converge to produce a perfect arena for racing; with a constant and reliable thermic wind that blows everyday between 11.00 and 16.00 hrs.! You can expect a steady breeze of between 10 to 20 knots – with no sudden surprises.
This regatta included racing for Formula as well as Raceboard; and a fleet of RSX sailors that raced as a separate fleet, as this was an ARG selection event for the forthcomng Pan American Games.
The vastness of the country has conspired to make the organisation of events very difficult and expensive. However there is a lot of interest in racing and the development of facilities such those on Potrerillos Lake, which has the support of the Economic Ministry, guarantees a bright future for racing in this region of South America.
Increased co-operation between racers in Mendoza Province and Chile has already been discussed; as well as attracting further international regattas and championships to the lake in future years.
AMW are hosting the Raceboard Worlds here in Otober 2007 – the enthusiastic, friendly and dedicated group of windsurfers within its membership ensure that the class can expect a memorable championship.
Further details of the Worlds, the venue and beneficial arrangements for sailors, will be published over the next few weeks. For the time being put these dates into your competition diary – October 1st to 7th.
