#dbsc – Over 100 Fireballs have gathered at Bracciano, just NW of Rome to contest the 2012 Europeans. In addition to the traditionally strong British presence there are Italians, Czechs, French, Swiss, Slovenians, Canadians (3), a solitary Namibian and of course 9 Irish boats writes Cormac Bradley.
After a very early flight out of Dublin (6:15) which necessitated a 3am rise, we were greeted with glorious sunshine, good breeze and warm water when we arrived at the venue!
Today has been dedicated to registration and measuring but there has also been some casual sailing done.
Kenny and Alistair Rumball seem to have had a trouble free trip in getting our boats here and their 9-boat trailer has been the subject of much interest. The three boats trailers used by some of the UK travellers pale by comparison.
It is good to meet up with old friends whom we haven't seen for a year or more.
And yet for those of us who knew him well it is odd not to have seen Johan Devocht (RIP), the Belgian IJ who had almost become synonymous with international Fireball events. Sadly he passed away in early July.
Tomorrow will see more registration and an opening ceremony at 19:00.
From a sunny Bracciano...
