ROCKWOOL Denmark SailGP Team sits in first place at the half way point of France Sail Grand Prix in Saint Tropez after a strong Race Day 1 filled with drama.
The Danes, led by Nicolai Sehested, grabbed two podiums from three races to secure top spot in the rankings on a day marked by penalties and damage.
In building breeze, Team ROCKWOOL took third place in the opening race of the day – to continue the good form shown in Practice Racing on Friday, where the Danes took top spot with two race wins from three.
A seventh place in Race 2 followed, before Sehested and his crew scored a second position in the final action of the day to claim first spot overall ahead of a Super Sunday in Saint-Tropez.
“We’re of course happy to be in the mix going into Race Day 2, but we also have a lot to improve on ahead of tomorrow,” admits Sehested.
“The conditions were really tricky today and tested the team to the fullest, so in the circumstances, to keep ourselves in the top is really pleasing. Now we need to hit the ground running on Sunday and make sure we book our place in the final.”
The Danish team has started Season 4 in style, narrowly missing out on a finals spot in Chicago in June, and making it into the final three in Los Angeles in July.
“We’re still growing as a team, and part of that process is making the opportunities count. But we’re super happy with how we have started the season and now we’re just looking to put consistent performances together.”
He adds: “It’s about being strategic and patient – first you just have to do everything you can to get in the final, and then when you get there, put it all on the line to grab the win.”
Drama followed the final racing of the day as New Zealand SailGP Team suffered a dramatic wing collapse, causing damage. No athletes were injured, and SailGP is currently investigating the incident.
“It’s quite shocking footage to see and of course we’re relieved that everyone onboard is safe. We hope to see the Kiwis back racing as soon as possible,” adds Sehested.
Fans can watch Race Day 2 at France Sail Grand Prix from 1330 CEST and can visit sailgp.com/watch to find out how to view in their market.
