News from Francisco

here are the latest news from Francisco

and his 2009 program

-----Message d'origine-----
De : Francisco Portillejo francisco.portillejo@ewmglobal.com
Envoyé : lundi 22 décembre 2008 15:26

Dear Sailing Friends

Another year is almost gone and we don’t get any younger,
so here is the unbeatable medicine applicable to all ages to keep you very young, healthy and full of energy in 2009:
GOOD SEA BREEZE + GOOD SAILING BOAT + GORGEOUS SEAS + GREAT FRIENDS

I have been a little quiet lately in terms of my sailing bulletin, the markets did not help of course but now that the dust has settled (sic!),
I am back into action for a great 2009 sailing season.
Here are some of the main events I will participate in and you are more than welcome to join anyone of them.

February / March 2009 (dates to be defined)
Sailing the Caribbean from St Vincent & Grenadines to St Barts/ St Marteens during a one week cruising trip. I am chartering a 52 footer sloop with 5 double cabins and 2 bunks accommodating 12.
But as usual, only 8-9 will join the party as it will be way more comfortable for us all.
Overnight stops in the islands along the way giving time for a lot of local swim, diving and food.

10 July 2009,
Cowes to Dinard race, this is one if you feel a need for ‘fun-stress & competition’. This race will be a preparation for the Fastnet (see below).

09 August 2009,
This is the year of the Fastnet Race and for the thirds time, I will be syndicating a boat, crew and sponsor. So if you are in a mood for serious racing, this will be the one not to miss.

17 October 2009,
Rolex Middle Sea Race in Malta is a closing season type of race and I will be setting up another syndicate to participate in it. Malta is known for top sailing, incredible sceneries with guaranteed sailing emotions.

26 December 2009,
Sydney to Hobart, Yes, this is not a joke! I have been advised by many close friends not to do it again, as the last time we did it on the 100 footer Konica Minolta on December 2005, we finished 3rd in compensated time. This will be very hard to beat this time but we never know... what a rush it was, got to do it again!

So these are the main sailing highlights for 2009 but there will also be numerous week ends ie. France (Trinite/ Mer, Voile de St Tropez), Spain (Copa del Rey, Ruta de la Sal) Italy (Portofino, Porto Cervo regattas) which will bring a lot of fun on the water.

Finally if sailing is not your things, we can still meet in St Moritz end January for top skiing on the Top of the World!

I wish you all the Best and Happy Holidays Season!

Francisco
Cell +447770 697 336 Mail: Francisco.portillejo@gmail.com Skype: francisco_portillejo