Ioannis Mitakis happy after winning 2012 Finn European Championship in Gulf of Follonica
Greek Finn sailor, Ioannis Mitakis had a superb finish in the 2012 Finn European Championship on the Gulf of Follonica waters and successfully managed to hit the winning spot by 32 points after setting sail in seven races which included a discard race and
the final medal race. The new Finn European Champion is feeling overjoyed after topping the fleet.
The start of the regatta was a bit difficult as heavy winds troubled the Finn fleet around the Follonica waters but the sailors did not let go of their spirits and consistently continued the regatta. None of the races were abandoned because of the strong
winds in the beginning. However, the strength of the breeze came down in the final stages.
The final day of the regatta witnessed low and shifty winds blowing across the race course which was real trouble for the sailors who were getting ready to take part in the medal race. Nevertheless, the participants sailed sensibly to cope with the conditions.
Mitakis clinched the second place in the medal race and finished on top with 32 points to lift the championship title.
Speaking to the local media after winning the regatta, Mitakis said, “I am really happy with this. I didn't expect to win this championship so I am really happy. I had a very good final race. For sure the light winds are my favourite conditions. Today I
was really fast upwind. I started on the left and I just tried to keep close to Vasilij and Bambi, and suddenly I had the chance to pass into first and that was it.”
He added, “I think the right hand side paid more with more pressure. I will go back home now, and then go to the British Nationals and Finn Gold Cup in May. And then of course the Olympics; It will be my first.”
The Greek sailor started the regatta with some lower finishes because of the strong winds. His lowest finish in his campaign was 35th in the second race but that race was discarded at the formulation of final results. After the second race, Mitakis
improvised according to the conditions and grabbed a couple of top podium positions which helped him winning the competition in the end.
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