José Cusi’s Bribón stole the march on leading duo Emirates Team New Zealand and TeamOrigin to win the practice race for the 52 Series off Cagliari in a light sea-breeze today.

52 Series Training Day Bribon. Region of Sardinia Trophy Photo Credit Ainhoa SanchezAudi MedCup

Although TeamOrigin (GBR) lead Audi MedCup title holders Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL) around the first windward mark, Bribón (ESP) were serious contenders.

Approaching the first turn on port tack, tactician Ian Walker (GBR) prudently chose to have helm Gonzalo Aurajo (ESP) duck behind the leading pair to be safe, rounding third just ahead of Audi A1 ALL4ONE (FRA/GER).

The Franco-German team were quick downwind and got up to third, but Walker astutely called the extra new breeze on the final run, holding left, which allowed them to steal across the front of Emirates Team New Zealand. TeamOrigin chose not to cross the finish line.

Sabina Mollart-Rogerson