DONINO MAKES A GRAND DEBUT
DONINO MAKES A GRAND DEBUT
New Team Hits The Ground Running In Villasimius
Event one of the Melges World League European Division was held last weekend in the beautiful waters of Villasimius, Italy. Wind ranged from 8-11 knots throughout the weekend. North clients finished 1,2,4,5 in the strong 14-boat fleet. Luigi Giannattasio’s Argentinian team Donino found themselves on top of the podium in their Melges World League debut.
“The team members played a key role in this victory, made up of great champions like Manu Weiller, Sebastian Col and Federico Michetti, who were the key to the team’s growth up to this level of competitiveness that puts us with great pride at the top. “
Newcomber Donino hit the ground running, finishing race with a bullet, and continuing their stride with all but one finish outside of a third place. The team was able to fend off second place Caipirnha, a known powerhouse, as well as Tavatuy, who is a two-time World Champion. Even with a 10th place finish in race four, Donino swept the fleet, winning by 12 points after the discard.
“I can only express great happiness for this result obtained on a boat that both myself and my son Pierluigi, who was on board with us and with whom I have the pleasure of sharing this success, love very much,” commented owner and skipper Luigi Giannattasio. “The team members played a key role in this victory, made up of great champions like Manu Weiller, Sebastian Col and Federico Michetti, who were the key to the team’s growth up to this level of competitiveness that puts us with great pride at the top. ”
Mainsail trimmer, Sebastian Col was also humble his team found success after their first regatta together. The team worked closely with North Sails in Italy and got a ton of support. Sebastian commented; “The service we have received from North Sails in Italy was helpful. Everyone is knowledgeable, and they know the boat. All of this has contributed to the fact that we have been able to figure out the boat faster, and can start the season with the ability to be competitive with other top teams.”
When it comes to using North Sails, Sebastian had a positive experience. “North’s products for the Melges 32 make it easy to find your groove quickly. Our sails have great shape and work well in all wind ranges. As a starting point for the season, we are pleased with the product and service we received.” Following the North Sails tuning guide and seeing how it affects the boat also made a difference for Donino. “North’s tuning guide is a good starting point. We will continue to push during practice, hoping we get faster and more comfortable in the boat,” said Sebastian.
Winning the first event of the season is a great way to start the season, but the team acknowledges that they need to keep working at it because the series is far from over, and the level of competition is still a very high. Sebastian commented; “We don’t want to be too confident after winning this first regatta. Spending the time in the boat is what we need to continue to do well in the series.”
