GUADELOPE RACE REPORT:
Guadelope especially is a beautifull tropical island with a terrific coastline. The locals dont seem too concerned with building maintenance...or maintenance in general actually, but the facilities are up to scratch. Its a lot like Mauritius.

Its very weird in that it is actually part of France so its like being in France only its 8000kms away. Needless to say its taken me three days to figure out how to order coffee the way I like it and not in espresso form sans milk or sugar. And when you ask for it like that its instant disgust.

Race organisation = BRILLIANT BRILLIANT BRILLIANT Airport transfers, accommodation paid for, complimentary car hire.
I must commend Olivier and his team, we can learn from them. Great finish venue in a marina, marque tent, complimentary water, drinks, coffee any time, fantastic cuisine for registration dinner and race lunch.
All Guedalope dignitaries were invited and attended the registration AND the race.
Continental breakfast before the race start on the other island; WOW, now thats how you start a race...
Big ferry to take competitors and skis to the race start on Desirade Island. Specatots could come as well.

RACE: Its the prefect downwind setup 100percent downwind with great runs. A pretty straightforward line (thank goodness) but technical as the wind blows from left shoulder for first half so you have to angle. VERY VERY VERY hot!!! Its the hottest I,ve been in a race ever. I took a bottle of fresh water with me and kept cooling myself off; That saved me.

French team did well and Jaka Jazbec is slowly improving. Dave Kissane footplate kept moving. He eventually just paddled with long leg length.

Very exciting, they really want to get '4star status and will move race to earlier in year to suit better conditions. Bigger swell and wind, cooler conditions. They may get the money from union.

All in all I believe that this a race worth supporting and coming to do.