A Mediterranean classic for one-designs and IRC classes, the Primo Cup – Trophee Credit Suisse organised by the Yacht Club de Monaco hosts Europe’s elite over two weekends in February, with nine classes lined up for the 32nd edition:

– 1st weekend (5-7 Feb): Smeralda 888, Surprise, Star, SB20 and IRC 1 to 4
– 2nd weekend (12-14 Feb): J/70, Melges 20, Longtze Premier, Platu 25 and Diam 24od

Over the last 32 years the Primo has proved an ideal testing and demonstration ground for newcomers, prime examples being the Esse 850, Melges 20 (first regatta on the sea), Longtze Premier, Beneteau First Class and J/70.

New to the Primo this year is the powerful 24ft trimaran, Diam 24od, which rejuvenated the Tour de France à la Voile (sailing’s version of the cycle race) in 2015 and is set to do so again in 2016 (8-31 July 2016: nine Acts starting in Dunkirk and finishing in Nice).

As the season-opener in the Med the Primo offers this fleet an ideal opportunity to train in these waters ahead of the Tour alongside other sporty designs like the J/70 and Melges 20.

While many sailors come from as far afield as eastern and northern Europe to escape the cold and revel in a warmer winter, the Monegasque race area is tactically demanding in all weather conditions. Note: the ski slopes are just 90 minutes away from Monaco!

Crew members in the top three of all classes win garments from YCM partner SLAM’s Advanced Technology line.

Registration closes 25th January 2016.

www.ycm.org
www.yacht-club-monaco.mc/en/events/2016-uk/primo-cup/