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Published on December 4, 2007

 The first day of the competition saw a record 103 boats contesting across twelve categories off Kata beach.

Having enjoyed a favourable breeze, which hit a maximum of twelve knots, at the start, the fleet faced testing times by afternoon when the winds dropped significantly.

Hong Kong sailor Frank Pong on Jelik stole an early march on his rivals by finishing first in the Racing class, the top-flight event. Hot on Pong's heels are the Hong Kong-based Fred Kinmonth and Nick Burns on Fortis Mandrake, while DK46 Quantum Racing skippered by Australia's captain, Ray Roberts, lay further back.

The 63-year-old Pong, however, has to be mindful of the event last year when he also made a strong start only to find himself finish down the table.

"I'm happy with the outcome today, but it's still too early as we have more races to come," said Pong, who was crowned the 2006-2007 Asian Yachting Grand Prix Champion.

Another experienced member who also got off a good start was local skipper Radab Kanjanavanit onboard Cedar Swan. Radab subdued a strong field in the Multihull Racing division to claim an early lead. Namibia's Tim Milner at the helm of Seekronghuk finished second, while Richard Simson of Australia came in third.

With forecast of strong northeasterly winds over the week, Santi Kanchanabandhu, president of the organising committee, expects more thrilling races.

Kitinan Sanguansak

The Nation

Phuket