Bruno Sroka and Fabienne D'Ortoli crowned European Course Racing Champions

The Grand Prix Petit Navire has kept all its promises for the staging of the first official European Course Racing Championships, even when there was no more racing on the final day of the competition due to lack of wind.

After 12 rounds of racing, Bruno Sroka and Fabienne D'Ortoli (both France) are the new Champions of Europe.

Flawless organization, great race management, many rounds raced, and an adaption of the new ISAF Racing Rules of Sailing made this a great event for the 97 competitors from all over Europe.

Bruno Sroka, European Champion 2009:
"It was not easy but the work paid off. It has been three months with Paulo (Editor's note: Paulo Rista: Designer) we try to develop the hardware. This Grand Prix was a test-scale facing a big competition. In the end, our choices are validated by comparison with other riders who sailed with conventional boards. (Editor's note: Marc Blanc, second, the main opponent of Bruno was sailing on it with a foil). I am really happy and if our work helps to change the kite, it's great!. I'm really happy because this is a big personal and team with Paulo, and the title is a reward for our work."

Fabienne D'Ortoli, European Champion 2009:
"I'm glad because I do not really expect to finish first, especially with the presence of Steph Bridge (Editor's note: PKRA Tour Champion 2008). It was really hot between Steph, Caroline Adrien and me, all rounds ended a few meters of each other. But it was a great edition, with great management."

Full results can be found here, pictures from the organizer are available here