Less than a month to go for the 2024 A-Class Catamaran World Championships in Tuscany, and the Centro Velico Punta Ala is once again setting a new record for the number of participants!
From September 7th to 14th, Tuscany will once again take center stage in the world of sailing. The world’s top A-Class skippers will compete in the Gulf of Follonica for the World Championship title in one of the oldest and most active single-handed catamaran classes. The A-Class World Championships returns to the Centro Velico Punta Ala after nine years, at the PuntAla Camp & Resort.
With a total of 184 boats registered from 20 different nations, this event is shaping up to be the largest single-handed multihull event in the world this year, featuring one of the biggest fleets of catamarans ever assembled, even surpassing those at the Olympics. The fleet is evenly divided between the Classic and Open categories, with Italy representing the largest contingent with about 41 boats, followed by Germany with 26 entries. This marks a new record for the Centro Velico Punta Ala, which, after the success of EurILCA and the Finn World Masters, is hosting the final and most spectacular sailing event of the season. The event will feature not only ultralight and incredibly fast boats, but also the presence of world-renowned sailors, some of whom are part of America’s Cup teams, while others are Olympic athletes.
From young talents under 25 to the more experienced Great Grand Masters over 56, participants will compete for the title in two categories: the A Classics, which represent the tradition and pure essence of sailing, and the Foil, modern flying catamarans that defy the laws of physics with their ability to “fly” over the water. This distinction between the two categories was established right here in Punta Ala, where in 2015, a historic vote was held during the IACA general assembly. The decision to retain Rule 8, which limited the use of daggerboards, was passed by a narrow margin, stabilizing the future of the class and leading to the creation of the two current categories, now officially designated by World Sailing: Open (Foiling) and Classic (Non Foiling).
In both the Open and Classic categories, there are several high-profile athletes to watch.
In the Open category, the reigning champion, Kuba Surowiec (POL 41), is ready to defend his hard-won title. Among the top contenders is Mischa Heemskerk (NED 007 ), a dominant force in the fleet and multiple world champion contenders. He’s expected to bring some secret weapon as he aims for his 4th World title, leveraging his blend of technical skill and innovative strategies. Darren Bundock (AUS 88), a multiple Olympic medalist and America’s Cup veteran, is another key competitor. Despite his illustrious career, the world title has always eluded him, making him even more determined this year. Among the Italians, Lamberto Cesare (ITA 13), who placed 10th in Toulon, stands out, as does newcomer Marco Anessi (ITA 7), who has already claimed the gold medal at the Italian Championships in his debut year in the A-Class.
In the Classic category, Olympic veteran and reigning champion Scott Anderson (AUS 31) will defend the title he reclaimed in Toulon after an incredible 37-year hiatus. Key challengers include European champion Gustavo Doreste (ESP 72) and three-time world champion Andrew Landenberger (AUS 308), who will be competing on a new boat. Notable Italians include Marco Radman (ITA 55), who finished fifth in Toulon, and Alberto Farnesi (SWE 59), who excels in strong wind conditions.
With such a prestigious lineup of participants, the competition promises to be intense and closely contested, with many contenders ready to battle for the world title. Unlike recent sailing events where everything hinges on a single final race, here the champion will be the sailor who accumulates the fewest points overall, setting the stage for what could be an epic race.
To make the event even more legendary is the enchanting location of PuntAla Camp & Resort, with the island of Elba on the horizon and a sandy beach free of obstacles or rocks. While there may be some swell, the sea is deep enough to avoid short, choppy waves, and there will be numerous assistants on hand to ensure safety.
This delightful resort, nestled in a fragrant pine forest on the Tuscan coast, will transform into a sort of “Olympic village,” offering a welcoming and safe environment for participants and companions, with the opportunity to gather the fleets on the beach, which will serve as a parking area for the boats. The resort boasts restaurants offering delicious local food and wine, as well as a special program for companions and a fantastic post-regatta program, ensuring fun for everyone.
It promises to be a truly unforgettable event.
FOR INFO, SCHEDULE & LOGISTIC INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT:
https://www.centrovelicopuntaala.it/en/a-cat-world-championship/
@centrovelicopuntaala
