European Asso 99 Championship: Standings, Disqualifications, and Final Day Predictions

It was a very tough day yesterday at the European Asso 99 Championship. In the morning, His Majesty the “peler” granted everyone his tangible presence. Afterwards, he left, and it was not easy at all—quite the opposite—the race for a second test was extremely difficult. The committee and crews were on the water until almost 6 p.m. And in the end, after four races were completed, a standings list without discard points emerged, placing Simo di Luca Valerio at the top. This was no surprise. Missing Satanasso with Nicola Celon, the Desenzano helmsman has all the credentials to aim for the victory he has been chasing for several years. The most pleasant surprise, however, was the second place of Mediatel by Carlo Fracassoli, rightly regarded, given his age, as a hopeful of Garda sailing. The third in this standings is Koenig Ludwig by Leopoldo di Baviera and Andy Plettner. Leading the Asso 99 European Cup, which is the class’s international circuit, is a real threat for Valerio. In fourth place is the Hungarian Detre, very well coordinated and perfectly comfortable on these waters. Fifth is Daniela Puntel Pasotti with Ikemiba-Amonti, driven by Riccardo Papa and Michele Ivaldi, known for Luna Rossa at the head of the mast, chasing the wind from Auckland. Following are Icas by Racchelli, Biemme Oid Simo by Bruno Fezzardi, Pneumax-Unigen, Assatanato by Luca Modena—the European champion, at least until tomorrow—Bete 3 Ala by Giovanni Cassinari, Beppe Devoti and Ciccio Celon, Cioccomenta by Umberto Grumelli, Cassiodoro by Marco Caversazio, Peecasso by Attila SzUvassy, Bisi by Dodo Gorla, and Luciano Lievi. The first race yesterday morning was wonderful, characterized by a head-to-head duel lasting the entire regatta between Luca Valerio and Giovanni Cassinari. In the end, Giovanni Cassinari won. Valerio finished second, third went to Mediatel by Carlo Fracassoli, fourth to Dodo Gorla, and fifth to Nicola Menoni with Claudio Tonoli. After three races, Luca Valerio was already leading the standings. The problems arose with the second race. The wind search at Forbisicle and the fleet’s nerves were as intense as ever when the standings begin to take shape. The start had to be attempted six times, with the last involving a black flag. The race was won by Koenig Ludwig in front of Ikemiba-Amonti. Third was the German Wieland, fourth Bruno Fezzardi, and fifth once again Nicola Menoni. However, it was a drama for many contenders aiming for the European title. The black flag start procedure excluded Edo Lanzavecchia, Giovanni Cassinari, Dodo Gorla, Gianni Beventi, Andrea Felci, Luks Hummier, Sigrist, and Sebastian Koehie. The disqualified contested the decision. Some claimed that the starting line was poorly positioned and, in the chaotic moment during the critical part of the race, it was impossible not to go over the line. Others argued they were in the second row. Cesare Pasotti, the class secretary, refused to comment but expressed support for Dodo Gorla. Naturally, it was no use. All the disqualified submitted their reasons to the Jury and requested redress according to the regulations. The jury is gathering, examining testimony. The decisions will be announced this morning. Certainly, excluding some of the best competitors during the middle phase of the championship could distort the results, alter the standings, and leave a bitter taste for those who eventually secure the title and podium positions. The top three in the provisional standings still have their chances. Has Valerio already won? With two races remaining, it is almost impossible to say, as yesterday proved that anything can happen and ruin any standings, even the best one. While awaiting what will happen, here is a news update. The class has decided that, even for 2001, the European Championship will be held in Gargnano during the 100 Week, between Gorla and Centomiglia, and that it will become a fixed fixture of the Week. Perfect. This location is ideal and simplifies the fleet’s logistics. Today is the final day for the championship. Last evening, it was raining under a grey sky. Tonight will be entirely dedicated to the awards ceremony in Gorla, including the European Championship, Trofeo Castellani, and Trofeo Marchi. All will take place at the beautiful Velaevento Arena above Bognango 2000, where yesterday some of Luna Rossa’s crew spoke about the team and its latest news.