You are here: okdia.org > reports & results > other countries > lux nats 97

Luxembourg Nationals 1997

international OK Championship Of The Grand Duchy Of Luxembourg

31.5 - 1.06

24 OK sailors from 5 countries came to Luxemburg for the Nationals and Open, expecting the usual "crazy winds"; light, shifty and gusty. The wind was shifty and gusty for the 2 days, but not light. Saturday had 4-5 Bft, gusting 6, and Sunday 5-6 Bft, gusting 7. This prompted several sailors, not unexpectedly Belgian, to sit back, watch the spectacle and enjoy the free beer.

Peter Jannichsen from Holland was particularly unlucky, he broke his new mast while towing the boat and the replacement mast proved too stiff for the conditions.

Kris Lauwers' boat preparation showed everyone how keen he was. He covered his bottom with fresh tape. We hope this doesn't start a new fashion ... .

The first race was won by Alex Schoenmakers, before Ralf Mackmann and Klaus Stephan. From the second race on, Ralf Mackman demonstrated how to sail in strong winds, and despite serveral capsizes, went on to win all other races. The strong winds took their toll and each race showed a reduced number of starters.

Michel Lesure became the 1997 National OK Champion of Luxemburg.

With a new place on the calendar, the Luxemburg championship promisses to become a popular event again with good organisation, excellent facilities, nice international atmosphere and plenty of free beer.