Real Club Nautico de Laredo is currently playing host to 150 29ers and 49ers for their world and European championships. The first day of racing in the qualifying heats was more reminiscent of a wet day in England rather than the Northern Spain.

A 5-10 knot breeze with mist and drizzle got the first fleets away. However, as the day progressed the weather got worse and the wind less. In the 49er the four fleets raced on two courses, half the competitors managed two races while the second flights got one race in on one course and no races on the other. Completion of the first round will have to be completed on day two so than fleets can be reallocated. Chris Draper and Simon Hiscocks have kicked off their series with two thirds. In the 29er Great Britain and Argentina are sharing the honours. Tristen Jaques and Alan Sign won their single race of the day from Dave Evans and Rick Peacock. The first group completed two races with line honours going to Bettini / Villamforesa (ARG) and Smedley / Wilson (GBR). Finland are the best of the rest.