Following on closely from their world championship held in California last month, 65 Star boats have made the trip to Italy from 22 nations, including some of the top Star sailors in the world to contest the European championship in Genoa, Itlay.

Racing got underway with 2001 Star world champion Fredrik Loof of Sweden, sailing with Andres Ekstrom, leading the way to win the opening race of the championship. Niklas Holm/Martin Leifelt of Denmark crossed the line in second place with Mark Mansfield/ Killian Collins of Ireland third.

There were however, some top names missing out of the top five, 1995 and 2000 world champion and three time Olympic medallist Mark Reynolds sailing with Austin Sperry of America came in ninth place. Another surprise was pre-race favourites, recent world champions and team GBR sailors, Iain Percy/Steve Mitchell failing to finish the first race.

However, it is still early days, the championship will consist of six races in total, with race two and three being sailed today and continuing through until Friday 11 October, with Thursday scheduled as a reserve day.

Results (after 1 race)

1, Fredrik Loof/Andres Ekstrom, SWE (1) 1 pt

2, Niklas Holm/Martin Leifelt, DEN (2) 2 pts

3, Mark Mansfield/Killian Collins, IRE (3) 3 pts

RYA team GBR

63, Iain Percy/Steve Mitchell (DNF) 66 pts