Cowes, UK 23 July – Despite
being the last yacht to cross the start line of todays Pantaenius
sponsored Race 1 of the Superyacht Cup Cowes, the crew of the 34m Royal
Huisman built Unfurled found their way through challenging light air conditions to cross the line first on a shortened course.

As the early morning mist lifted with blue skies above, the fleet were started from the Royal Yacht Squadron line  at 1105 with the 45m Briand Mari Cha III
crossing the start first headed to the Eastern Solent on the longer
course toward the NAB tower. As the rest of the fleet followed with Unfurled
last over the start line, the yachts progressed slowly up the course
helped by the flood tide towards the first mark at North Sturbridge.

Due to the lack of consistent wind and the imminent
tidal change, the decision was however taken by the race committee to
shorten the course. Unfurled were finished between Warner and the committee boat at 1415. They were followed by Leopard 3 four minutes later and Hamilton finishing at 1504. Athos,
who had to put in an extra tack to lay the finish line, finished fourth
at 1512. The remaining fleet retired from the race or were unable to
reach the finish.

The forecast for tomorrow is also for light winds
but as the temperature increases throughout the week, it is hoped the
sea breeze will fill in to provide some better wind conditions for the
fleet.