Bella Mente Battles Through Scenic and Challenging Coastal Race in Porto Cervo

Bella Mente Racing

Sep 10

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Photo Credit: Max Ranchi

Day 2 of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup delivered the kind of coastal racing that makes Porto Cervo one of the most iconic sailing venues in the world. The Bella Mente team took on a demanding 41-nautical mile course, navigating some of the most breathtaking — and technically challenging — stretches of water Sardinia has to offer.

“Coastal racing in Porto Cervo is some of the best in the world and today did not disappoint,” said Tactician Terry Hutchinson. “The fleet set off on a 41 nautical mile track first heading south around Spiaggia di Mortorio and the Island of Soffi, and back upwind through 'Bomb Alley' to a laid mark just east of the island of Spargi. For a fast run downwind, a couple of left turns and then Secca dei Monaci to starboard for a two-sail reach to the finish. It’s all a blur at the moment, but it was a hard-fought race for the Bella Mente team. Hap executed a solid mid-line start, and the boat handling side of the team was awesome!”

The Bella Mente crew pushed hard throughout the race and fought tooth and nail around every mark. While we narrowly missed the podium with a 4th place finish, the effort brought us one point closer to Jolt and just two points behind Django 7 in the overall standings.

“Only three races into the event with four to go and a strong mistral in the forecast,” Hutchinson added. “As always, plenty to improve upon in between the lifelines. Looking forward to tomorrow!”

With four more races on the schedule and big breeze on the horizon, the team remains focused, hungry, and ready to keep climbing.

Go Bella Go!