A Very Cold Welcome

From Italy, I travelled to the Netherlands to compete in the Hempel World Cup Amsterdam. I have never been to the Netherlands before, but so far it has been fantastic. Most people speak english, the grocery stores are easy to navigate, and the weather has been lovely, but cold. It may be almost June, but it is as cold here as some of the coldest Florida days.

One of my good friends from the Dutch National Team told me there was an event occurring at the same venue as HWC Amsterdam a few days before the event started, so with short notice, I decided to participate in the Dutch Foiling Championships.

Saturday, the first day of the event was fantastic. High 50s, sunny, and 14-18 knots. It was my first time sailing at this venue, and it feels a lot like my home venue with its shallow waters, and short steep chop with short periods. It is a blast to sail here. The first day was not my finest sailing, and I made many mistakes, but still was leading the event going into day 2.

Day 2 I found my stride. Out of 6 races, I won 5 of them and got 2nd in the 6th. I still made minor errors through the day, but luckily so did the people behind me. I was able to win the event, giving myself some confidence, and invaluable time at the venue going into the World Cup on June 1st.