Cala Galera (GR) – Thrilling Grand Finale at the J/70 European Championship in Cala Galera
After several hours of waiting onshore due to a lack of wind, the fleet of nearly ninety boats from over twenty countries completed the eleventh and final race of the series. This regatta was crucial in determining the final standings, which had been marked by dramatic shifts and intense emotions until the last moment.
The race course of Argentario favored Joel Ronning and his Catapult crew. The American team claimed the top spot in the European Championship in Cala Galera, edging out Brazil’s Ocean Pact by just 6 points, while their compatriots on Good To Go secured the bronze medal.
According to J/70 Class regulations, however, the European Champion title must be awarded to a crew representing a nation from the continent. Therefore, the 2024 J/70 European Champion title was bestowed upon Wanderlust, helmed by Sofia Giondi with Matteo Morellina, Luca Tubaro, and Filippo Baldassari on board. Placing fourth overall, Wanderlust achieved a thrilling victory. This young and determined crew has been making a name for themselves among the numerous professionals in the J/70 circuit, winning also the Italian Championship in 2023.
“It’s an indescribable feeling, I’m speechless,” said Sofia Giondi upon crossing the finish line of the final race. She added, “I want to thank my crew for the extraordinary atmosphere they created on board. Every evening, we returned home incredulous of our position in the standings, but we faced every challenge of this long and complicated Championship with concentration. Thanks also to everyone who supported us from afar; there were so many of you, thank you!”
Wanderlust also secured the European Corinthian title, reserved for non-professionals, and climbed on top of the division for female skippers.
In the ten-year history of the J/70 Class globally, this is the sixth time an Italian crew has claimed the top European honor. Prior to Wanderlust, victories were celebrated by Luca Domenici, Claudia Rossi (three-times European Champion), and Alberto Rossi.
In the Corinthian podium, Wanderlust was followed by Jeepster (GBR) and Marnatura (ESP). The “Young Crew” award for the best youth team went to Bulla – Yacht Club Italiano (ITA). Why Not #CAIM (ITA) won the Mixed Plus division, while War Canoe (USA) was awarded in the One Pro category.
With the main event of the season concluded, the focus of the J/70 Italian Class shifts to the national J/70 Cup circuit. The next event is in Riva del Garda, from June 28 to 30, a location that consistently attracts a large number of crews from all over Europe and the World.
