After much persistence, the Santander Snipe Fleet was able to run the first Regata Femenina last weekend on the city waterfront. The event was the first of its kind in the Snipe Class, with all mixed teams, but a requirement for a female skipper. This was fortuitous, because strong winds prevailed throughout the weekend. On day one, winds of 23 knots and other Race Management complications prevented racing. The morning of day two, teams awoke to rain, dark skies, and winds of 10 - 18, oscillating greatly.
Despite the conditions, two races were sailed. Cristina Gutiérrez with crew Tomy Merendon dominated the fleet, winning both races. Laura Garcia and Cesar Arrarte finished the day with six points, and Susana Hurtado & Fran Silvela rounded out the podium with seven points.
We look forward to the event growing next year and other women from around the country joining for this great new regatta concept.