Just back from sailing in one of the nicest events in Europe.  The regatta is the Ibiza JoySail, held on the Spanish island of Ibiza in late September, at the end of the Mediterranean racing season.  It was only started a few years ago is now fully subscribed.  The event is unique in having a limited number of just 20 boats, which makes it a more personal and exclusive regatta.  It is based at the sponsors marina with a huge private tent for meetings, lounging, plus food and drinks before and after each days racing.  This allows owners, teams, and sailors to all casually mix and to catch up with old friends.  The only challenge can be the prevalent light winds at this late time of the season, but we were blessed with nice wind this year and had some great racing.

I was sailing on the Southern Wind 90 ALLSMOKE.  Southern Wind is a well established South African boat builder known for performance, comfort, and quality construction.  ALLSMOKE was designed by the Reichael/Pugh office for top level performance, but with comfortable amenities below to also allow for cruising.  We had a great team of about 18, comprised of nationalities from all around the world, but with a majority from Spain.  My tactician for the event was Luis Doreste, older brother of Jose Doreste, who beat me by a few feet for the Gold medal in the Finn many years ago.  Luis did an excellent job for us and was very enjoyable to sail with.  Overall we had a great regatta and a great team.  Hopefully we’ll do another one again soon.