Matador exorcised their ghost of last season today under the Devil’s Saddle when they won the 1.5 points multiplier coastal race to extend their overall lead in the Region of Sardinia Trophy Regatta’s 52 Series to 11.5 points over second placed Synergy.

Last year, Alberto Roemmers’ team led the coastal race but erred too close to the point at the Devil’s Saddle and ran out of breeze. But today, with Vasco Vascotto and Francesco Bruni combining on tactical choices along with navigator Bruno Zirilli, the Italian trio ensured that Matador did not put a foot wrong and were able to win by over two minutes.

In a light to moderate sea breeze the start was critical, setting the order for the windward mark, where Matador lead.

On the long reach across the Bay of Cagliari towards the point Matador held on to a reaching kite when their pursuers held jibs. That gave them a small boost as the breeze died slightly as they neared the point.

Quantum Racing overhauled Audi A1 powered by ALL4ONE on the run back in to the leeward turning mark set in the pretty bay of Poetto. The 2008 champions held off a spirited attack from Artemis on the final sprint under reaching gennakers in to the harbour mouth, taking second just ahead of Torbjorn Tornqvist’s team which won the coastal race here last year.

With a sold fourth place Synergy hold on to second place on the regatta standings only 2.5 points ahead of Terry Hutchinson and the Quantum Racing crew, with two days and four races still scheduled of the regatta.

Overall standings on Thur 23 Sept:

1    MATADOR
2    SYNERGY      
3    QUANTUM RACING      
4    EMIRATES TEAM NEW ZEALAND      
5    AUDI A1 POWERED BY ALL4ONE      
6    TEAMORIGIN 1851      
7    BRIBON      
8    ARTEMIS      
9    CRISTABELLA      
10    LUNA ROSSA