By Tormod Lie

Norway’s famous Hankø Raceweek was first held in 1882, and the 2019 event upheld the traditional excellence of the event. Held on the last weekend in June, the event was blessed with beautiful weather and top-notch racing crews in eight classes. Five IODs shared one of the two courses with 5.5-metres, Dragons, and Expresses.

Three races were completed the first day, with Tormod Lie’s team on Ivory leading the class with finishes of 1-2-1, followed by Martin Rygh in second with 3-1-2.

The next day was very tricky, with large shifts and shifting currents, and the lead changed frequently all day long. Martin showed his skill and passed the whole fleet after an early start in race 5. Fredrik Rygh was also very strong and earned the daily best with a 1-2, followed by Martin (3-1) and Robin Johannesson of Sweden (2-3).

Tormod Lie had a poor second day, finishing 4-4, which left the top three teams within two points before the final day, with Martin ahead by 1 point counting a throwout.

Recap video: https://www.facebook.com/ghrw2019/videos/406040736786543/

On the last day, three races were held and after Fredrik won the first, Tormod won two straight to win the series. Espen Eggen had his best finish of the series in the final race, finishing second after leading until close to the finish line.) Fredrik had a better day than his father had, and secured second place in the regatta.

All in all, it was a great regatta, the IOD fleet sailed with seven other classes and enjoyed a great prize-giving party at the Hankø Yacht Club. Special thanks to Robin Johannesson and Lars Berntsson from Sweden for spending time with us and give us a hard time on the water. Respect for the 90-nautical-mile tow back to Sweden the day after the regatta.

To all boat owners in Norway and Sweden that missed this fantastic event, check out Grundig Hankø Race week homepage and prepare your crew for next year’s event. Let us know if you need any help to come to the start line.