Challenge Interbanques – Eri Trophy

 

Over 50 representatives from banks and financial institutions were out on the water for what proved to be a very eventful weekend of racing!

 

There were no less than eight races run over two days for the 28th Challenge Inter-banques for the Eri Trophy organised under the auspices of the Association Monégasque des Affaires Financières – a full eight hours of racing! The Race Committee managed the starts between two stormy squalls and showers, all in a challengingly choppy sea with an easterly wind on the Saturday and a steady westerly on the Sunday.

 

Over the years with the support of the leading bank software specialist Eri, this event has become a firm fixture in the Monaco financial world’s calendar. Some of the crew now train all year round to be ready for it. Their strategy bears fruit as it is usually those who have been racing in the J/24 Monaco championship, organised year round by the Yacht Club de Monaco, who take the lead, like Credit Mutuel, Credit Suisse or Barclays.

 

Another consequence is that the skill level continues to rise offering a thoroughly enjoyable weekend for sailing enthusiasts. Faced with a trio racing neck and neck in the lead, no one wanted to give way to their opponents. Those following in their wake were equally determined and fought hard to squeeze in front of the tenors as they rounded the marks, adding spice to the manoeuvres and tactics in some thrilling races.

 

Finally, the more consistent Credit Mutuel clinched the trophy with three race victories and three second places ahead of Barclays and Credit Suisse.

 

 

Next edition : For the fourth year running, ERI, a leading specialist in banking-dedicated software, is associated with this event, Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 May 2011, in presenting the ERI Trophy.