The first round robin in the ISAF grade one Internationaux de France de Match-racing 2002 began Yesterday. Seven top ranked Skippers from 4 nations gathered in Pornichet as Mark Campbell-James (GBR) was forced to withdraw from the event on Tuesday due to illness.
François Brenac, ranked ninth in the latest ISAF world match racing rankings released today, and first in France, is the current favourite after finishing 7th in the City Match ISAF World Match racing Championship last week in Sweden.
"We aim at least for a place in final, but if possible the victory in this competition." The only change to Brenac's crew from last week is his bowman.
Mathieu Richard (FRA), the local of the competition, intends to distinguish himself and if possible to win even if he is not the favourite.
The round robin series, followed by semi finals and finals, continue until Saturday.