Still buzzing from their first event, Oceana Vivo were raring to get back to racing. Unfortunately, the second event in the line-up was cancelled, leading to some last-minute plan changes. Silver linings though, as the team were able to make the most of the time by setting out a training block in Lake Garda. Both the location and the crew changed for this, with Cas Van Dongen (69F sailor, DutchSail) and Bella Fellows (British Sailing Team 49erFX, Waszp, and Moth sailor) joined Oceana Vivo, with Cas stepping into a coaching role for the training block. With Bella on flight control, and Zac and Cas swapping between helm and main trim, the training block provided an exciting opportunity to really focus and develop 69F specific skills as well as build teamwork and communication.
Having only just arrived, the OV team got straight into it, making their way to Lake Garda and diving into a briefing, boat prep, and dry land drills in preparation for sailing the next day. This time allowed the team to acclimatise to the temperatures (highs of around 30°c, a bit of a change from the UK’s 15°c) and settle back into the 69F.
In typical Garda fashion, the morning northerly Peler breeze was coming in strong, with early starts allowing the team to make the most of the conditions. OV were rigged, ready, and raring to go by 08:30, looking forward to putting yesterday’s theory into practice. Their first session was stellar, a perfect 15 knot breeze pushing the team to work the boat hard, work well together, and even hit a top speed of 29.2 knots. Rounded off by a stint in the gym and a detailed debrief, this session felt really positive, setting the tone for the rest of the week.
The following days brought more of Garda’s famous pristine conditions. The team put in as many hours as they could, working towards their goals, developing their foiling manoeuvres. Putting time into the basics lays a strong foundation, providing a good base of skill and knowledge from which to build more complex racing tactics and manoeuvres under pressure.
Spending time in Garda is always a highlight for sailors, and Oceana Vivo were no exception. The lake was occupied by not only 69F sailors, but also J70s and RS800s competing in international events alongside the usual inhabitants of kitesurfers and windsurfers. Lake Garda is nothing if not an absolute spectacle, with clockwork conditions, stunning views, and the sailing community everywhere you look. Oceana Vivo were able to spend some time with fellow 69F team Antigua Barbuda, sharing the water as training partners as well as developing new friendships off the water over drinks and dinner.
A huge effort was put in by Oceana Vivo sailors and shore support alike to get the training in before Foiling Week (big thanks to everyone involved!).
The 69F class racing started here in Malcesine on the 29th of June for Foiling week – follow us and Foiling Week on Instagram to keep up with the racing!
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