SEBASTIAN COL DOMINATED DAY 1 AT SNIM

From Christel Durand in Marseille - The SNIM Regatta in Marseille is the opening event of the Melges 24 European Ranking and this year 63 boats from 9 European nations are racing in this four day regatta off the French Mediterranean coast. The quality of the Melges 24 fleet at this event is always exceptional and attracts the top teams to race in Marseille's perfect conditions. Sébastien COL aboard Partner & Partners, one of the favorites for this SNIM 2004, French Champion 2004 for Match Race, 2003 member of the French challenge AREVA for the America Cup , opened the regatta at full speed, winning both of the two races of the first day. "Such a racing day is pure happiness! We enjoy it immensly, we race, it’s a beautiful weather, it is just the SNIM! I have a very full season, within the team Partner & Partners, focusing on match race, FONCIA trimaran and I do hope to integrate a team for the next America Cup! And of course, in addition, Melges 24!" Commented Col after racing.

Among the favorites, Flavio FLAVINI aboard Blu Moon performed well in the first race where he finishes 2nd, but then suffered gear failure in the second race and did not finish. This second race started with a black flag procedure after a first general recall and several crews were disqualified for PMS.

Several incidents occurred affecting either boats or sails, but all will be repaired in the evening and everyone will be ready tomorrow to race at 11.00 am.

Provisional Results (subject to protest)

1 Sebastian Col/Philippe Ligot - Partner & Partners
2 Jerome Vaudelet - Minnie the Mooncher
3 Andrea Racchelli - Altea
4 Bruno Jourdren - Daucy
5 Remy Arnaud - Nantes St Nazaire