The thing about people who own big boats is that some of them have big boats because they were successful and know how to make things happen. So with many of the world’s TP52 owners at Quantum Key West Race Week, talks were had, meetings were held, and a race calendar for the grand prix yachts was decided.
After the premier race series for the class – the Audi Med Cup – became unsustainable, the Class has decided that it will control its own destiny.
The class will form a management group which will be owned and controlled by members. The group will be responsible for event management, event marketing, sponsor and media coordination as well as recruiting new teams to join 52 racing.
Rob Weiland, TP52 Class Manager, says:
“There is strong support and enthusiasm for this structure, not only among owners, but also potential sponsors who have been part of the discussions. TP52 racing will continue in 2012 and beyond at the same high-caliber level as in previous years. With class ownership and control, we expect to establish a strong, stable racing program that will continue to expand and excel.”
The 2012 TP52 Calendar
The new circuit will feature consistent race management including on-the-water umpiring. The circuit winner will be the best-performing boat in five qualifying events. The regatta schedule will include:
- Palma Vela, Palma, April 18 – 22 (tune up event)
- Trofeo Conde de Godo, Barcelona, May 23 – 27
- Sardinia Cup, Porto Cervo, June 11 – 17
- Royal Cup, Palma, July 10 – 14
- Copa del Rey, Palma, July 16-21 (does not count toward trophy)
- France Cup or One Ton Cup, TBD in France, September 18 – 22
- Valencia Cup, Valencia, October 9-13
More Boats, More Competition
Weiland says IRC 52 and Soto 40 teams are invited to join in the racing.
“We’d like to increase the participation, which not only makes for more exciting competition, but will also provide a chance to race for the Sardinia Cup, a team event with two-boat teams consisting of a 52 and a Soto 40.
For all events except the Copa del Rey, the 52s-whether a TP52 or IRC52-will race boat-for-boat.
“The IRC52s will have to be within a TCC limit for this. That limit is set slightly above the TCC that a TP52 has in order to accommodate features such as carbon rigging, which under IRC carry a rating ‘penalty’.
“Just as we are experiencing at Quantum Key West Race Week, this will provide close and exciting racing. Level rating, as such, is not a novelty, but the mix of level raters and box rule 52s is unique. For sure there is a lot to learn; we will start with an open mind and very few limits.”
At Copa del Rey the 52s will race under IRC.
“That suits the event organization better and maximizes the number of boats on the start line. We hope to see well over ten teams competing in Palma.”
The Soto40 Class have also announced a replacement circuit, following the demise of the Audi Med Cup.
