The Slam Weekend Regatta, regarded as one of the toughest contests for keel boats and dinghies was once more organised by Royal Malta Yacht Club and supported by RLR, local distributor of SLAM.
Reinforced by this particular weekend reputation, there was a spectacle sailing challenge both inside and outside of Marsamxett Harbour, over a three-day period..
Under the gloomy clouds and fairly strong winds, most of the downwind runs experienced many a slam slam slam until quite a few spinnakers gave way or got tangled, at a rather strange zone area, on the well planned courses round the marks, but luckily enough, no skipper reported any particular damage about his boat.
It was a coastal sprint that demanded the endurance and experienced seamanship with professionals and amateurs, veterans and rookies, with kids joining in the fun with their optimists.
After each racing day, it was just drink and fun, with a barbeque dinner at the Yacht Club, followed by the Award Prize Giving which included trophies and Slam products.
Racing results:
IRC Racer Class l
The experienced crew of JUNO did well to win both their Class and the Overall Slam Trophy in style by winning all the five races, but not before overriding the tough challenge that Commanche Raider offered. Third place was clinched by Rebel.
IRC Racer Class ll
Jawbreaker was more than happy to win his class especially when the crew aboard were almost all youngsters. However gaining the runner-up position in the overall Class was an added achievement to these youngsters and one that made them proud of this positive result. Runner-Up position was won by Mischief whilst Inspiration did well to get third place.
Cruiser Class
There was also quite a keen competition in this class with X Plane being unbeaten in all four races. Amica offered quite a stern challenge but in the end succeeded in winning the runner-up position with third place going to Vanquish.
Dinghy Class results
Over 20 young kids raced in the Optimists Classes round the trapezoidal course with the following podium results.
Optimist Open
1st Thomas Bonello Ghio 2nd Justin Busuttil 3rd Alex Esposito
Optimist Cadets
1st Matthew Micallef 2nd Craig Farrugia Vella 3rd Shaun Miggiani
Optimists Novices
1st Tino Bonnici 2nd Lucas Legault 3rd Jake Satariano