Naples - Regatta of Nations 2009
Viale della Liberazione, 80124 Napoli, Italy
CANADA SAILS ON IN INTERNATIONAL REGATTA
On Sunday 25 October 2009, the 19th International Regatta of Nations sailing tournament was held in Naples, Italy. This bi-annual event hosted by the Naples NATO Yacht Club is a very popular event within the international community of the region. This year's event was inaugurated with remarks provided by our very own Canadian Deputy Commander Joint Forces Command Naples, General Charles Bouchard.
General Charles Bouchard welcoming Regatta participants to the 19th annual International Regatta of Nations, Naples, Italy.
As in previous years, Canada was represented by our very own national military sailing team. Of note this year, was the team’s tri-force representative mix of Air Force, Army and Navy. The team consisted of Major Dan Zegarac (Air Force) as team captain, with the assistance of Major Michael Groh (Army) as coach and strategist and MS Gioacchino Di Martino (Navy) as skipper.
MS Gioacchino Di Martino at the tiller during initial leg of race number two.
While the espoused aim for the regatta was for maximum participation, good fun and enjoyable competition, some nations place a heavier emphasis on the competitive aspects. This year’s event was no different with some very stiff competition occurring among the top placed nations. While Canada’s team lacked experience compared to the prize winning teams, its dedication and esprit de corps allowed it to place in the top third of NATO nations. However, great amounts of fun and team camaraderie were shared by all Canadians participating and cheering the Canadian team on. However, top place went once again to the Italian team with American and Spanish nations taking second and third place respectively.
Major Michael Groh and MS Gioacchino Di Martino outward bound during relay portion of regatta competition.
