For us, it was the second time we participated in the Vele di Pasqua in Cesenatico at Easter. This year, it was part of the series for the Dinsdale Trophy EURO CUP HC14. This year, there was a significant increase in participants compared to last year, but it was just as much fun and with many more sails than last year.
Before sailing, most of us had to do some tinkering. The mast foot had to be adapted to the new class rules, or rather, replaced. Well prepared and equipped with sufficient feet by Andy Dinsdale, this went quickly.
So we were well prepared for the regatta days. The starting field was pleasing and impressive. The reigning European Champion (Thorin), the 2nd place in the European Championship (Dan), and Arnaud Thieme, an absolutely exceptional sailor in the Hobie scene. A total of 16 participants from five nations, including some fantastic young athletes from Italy, competed. Saturday began with light winds gusting up to 12 knots, and the three races dragged on.
In the evening, we sat down to dinner with our Italian hosts, this time not far from the campsite, but also in a pleasant atmosphere, and it was quite fun again.
On Sunday, there was a surprise – the Easter Bunny was there. And it was Klaus’s wind. The starting line was not in a good position, and shortly before the first start, it was slightly adjusted. It was too late for most to react. So Klaus was the only one to take the opportunity to start on starboard, got off to a great start, and, once in the lead, he held on to the finish. Incidentally, this was the only race that Arnaud Thieme failed to win.
On Easter Monday, Pope’s death, all sporting events in Italy were canceled.
With five first places and one second place, Arnaud showed his skills and won the regatta! Second place went to our sailing friend, Dan Borg from Canada, who had traveled the furthest, and Daniela Groos took third place as the best woman.
This meant that everyone was able to dismantle and load the boats in peace on Easter Monday, double-decked multiple times, and once even triple-decked – it was great to see so many helpful hands immediately stepping up to help!
In general, it was encouraging to see how the Hobie family grew closer over the days, with everyone exchanging ideas, helping each other with tips and tricks, and sharing experiences.
Thus, the ” Dinsdale Trophy Euro Cup of the HC 14 ” achieved exactly the desired success! Sure, some people have to travel long distances and sacrifice a few vacation days, but if not for this – for what?
Planning for next year (2026) is easy – Easter is already set, and then there will be the 50th Vele di Pasqua. Let’s celebrate this impressive series together with the club and the Hobie family!
So, off to Italy
Next appointment for the Dinsdale Trophy-HC14 Euro Cup 2025 will be in Germany at Boastsee from 21 to 22 of June. In the two days before there will be practise session for all the hobiecatters.
