LINKERS OPEN INTERNATIONAL DE DRAGONGolden Lily Wins in Deauville. “True Story”
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The LINKERS Open International de Deauville attracted 17 Dragon Teams from 6 different Nations (HKG, FRA, GBR, IRL, NED & BEL) sailed from 26th to 29th June. With a total of 8 races completed over the 4 days it was newcomer into the class Lijia Xu helming HKG 50 “True Story” who topped the leaderboard with an impressive 10pt total, a clear 16pts ahead of 2nd place FRA 426 Marc Vibert & GBR 633 Ron James 3rd.
Having won her Olympic Gold Medal in Weymouth (2012 Laser Radial Class) Lijia Xu has decided to try the Dragon with a goal of representing China at the 2026 World Championships in Hong Kong.
Loyal Sponsors LINKERS Philippe Delecourt & Michele, with Herve’ & President of Deauville Yacht Club Eric Lebon.
The current Deauville Yacht Club was built just 5 years ago and is one of the most picturesque clubs in Europe. However, the club will celebrate its 100 Anniversary in 2028 when it will host the Open French National Dragon Championship, so make sure to join the fun.
Such an amazing Yacht Club set in the heart of Deauville.
Our Race Officer (President du Comite’) Patrick Vilette, set excellent courses, making the very best from each day which all sailors appreciated. Patrick will also assist the Gold Cup Race Management Team in Douarnenez to ensure top quality racing.
5th Overall FRA 390 Philippe Rossignol with his daughter Nora.
4th Overall was the beautiful wooden Dragon “Titan” IRL 45 owned and helm by Ben Cooke from Dublin.
IRL 45 Titan. Ben Cooke Dan Robins & Tony Harper 4th overall.
In 3rd place overall was Ron James helming his beautiful Cold Moulded Borresen GBR 633. Ron is still enjoying his Dragon sailing and is a true inspiration to us all.
3rd overall GBR 633 Ron James, Jamie Lea & Joanna Richardson
In second place overall was FRA 426 “Ryujin” helmed by Marc Vibert, who put together some very consistent results including a win in Race 7.
2nd Overall FRA 426 Marc Vibert, Guillaume Soudee & Olivier Vibert.
Finally, to the winners (Yes I was on board with Lily & Will) HKG 50 counting 4 wins & 3 second places we were delighted to help Lily to her first Dragon victory. Many thanks to the sponsors “LINKERS” all the helpers and volunteers at Deauville Yacht Club and to our superb Race Management Team led by Patrick Vilette plus Yves Leglise Chairman of the Jury.
Lijia Xu, William Willett & Martin Payne, winners in Deauville.
Another huge “Merci” to Eric Lebon…… our guiding light 🙂
Higher, Faster, Longer…….. Stavros (HKG 50).
P.S. Huge thank you to our excellent photographer Patrick Deroualle