Porquerolles Classics, set around the wonderful Islands off Hyeres, France, was simply a stunning event. The beautiful island, friendly people, and flat, tactical waters made for both great racing and a fun social programme. Each evening after racing Skylark’s crew headed off on rented electric mountain bikes to tour the gorgeous islands – with navigation left on the water – often way more ‘off road’ than anyone anticipated.
This fabulous event heralded the return of two key crew members from 2015/6, who’d taken a year’s sabbatical from responsibilities. Bill ‘Quartermaster’ Ennis dropped straight back into his established role on board, motivating his team from his central position low in the cockpit with victuals, provender and sustenance, reliably allocated by need and in timely fashion. Mike ‘Papou’ Kakinis, also leapt aboard for this regatta taking charge of the new fully-battened mizzen and staysails. Requiring no familiarisation since his outstanding race wins in Spetses, Greece, Kakinis yet again generated enough horsepower from his charge to lead Skylark to another regatta victory in Porquerolles, winning 2 races out of three – the final day 4th place breaking Kakinis’ perfect score of 5 wins from 5.
Other crew on board, racing under the stewardship of the Papou/Quartermaster ‘Dream Team’, included Mogens Thorstrop who did something important and Tara who drove whilst the autopilot wasn’t on and Tony who fixed stuff. Toby, Letitia, Wouter, BB Tom and Richard ran around doing lots whilst The Headmaster rambled on.
A definite ‘must do’ event for 2018. And a nice watch too!
Baruna | Skylark | Blog 