Porto Cervo, 5 July 2019. Racing in the 16th edition of the Coppa Europa Smeralda 888 starts today. The event organised by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda is part of the annual circuit for the Smeralda 888 class which was born in Porto Cervo. The winner will be presented with the cup at the final prize giving ceremony at the YCCS clubhouse on Sunday 7 July.

Seven teams representing the Yacht Club de Monaco will do battle over the three days of windward-leeward racing on the regatta course off Porto Cervo. Current title holder Prince Charles of Bourbon, skipper of Vamos Mi Amor, returns to defend his title against: Bear Essentials (skipper Ian Ilsley), Beda (skipper Timifey Sukhotin), Black Star (skipper Paolo Rotelli), Botta Dritta (skipper Adalberto Miani & Francesco Vauban), Mascalzone Latino (skipper Achille Onorato) and Millenium Falcon (skipper Marco Favale).

Following this morning’s briefing at 11.30 and the traditional Welcome Brunch, the first starting signal is scheduled for 14.30 with light and variable winds forecast. Following the competition on the water, participants will meet at the Regatta Dinner this evening.

For further information, entry list and programme, please visit the YCCS website or contact the Press Office.