Delle-Karth / Resch world cup leaders!

The Miami Olympic Classes Regatta kicked off this year's ISAF Sailing World Cup.

The Miami Olympic Classes Regatta kicked off this year's ISAF Sailing World Cup in the waters of Biscayne Bay, an almost 60 kilometer long lagoon off Miami. 550 sailors from 39 nations battled it out for a good start into the season.

For the Austrian 49er crew with Nico Delle Karth and Niko Resch, this season opener went extremely well. On day 3 of the regatta, the duo won each of the three races and took the lead, ahead of Erik Storck/Trevor Moore from the U.S.

"The wind was more stable and a hint stronger. We always had the ideal tactical concept and a perfect trim, and our boat speed was phenomenal", said an exultant Delle Karth.

This great start into the season marked the second victory in Miami for Nico Delle Karth and Niko Resch who had already won this event in 2009. In the final Medal Race, the two 49er champs from Austria came in second, which was enough for them to win the regatta with a record margin of 17 points. In this battle between the top ten boats, the three-time World Cup champions went into the lead right from the starting line. Unfortunately, the Austrians lost speed not far from the finish line. Seagrass had gotten caught on their daggerboard and rudder blade. The Americans Storck/Moore were able to capitalize on this brief standstill and inherited the victory for the day. The next round of the ISAF Sailing World Cup is set to take place in the waters off Palma de Majorca (April 2-7).

Lara Vadlau and Eva Maria Schimak will also cherish their memories of Biscayne Bay. For the first time ever in their careers, these two ladies competing in the 470 Class made it into a Medal Race final. By taking fifth place, they moved up into ninth in the final overall standings.

We wish both teams as much success in the upcoming regattas.