Duc d’Albe Raid 2022: Win for James Baeckler & Christophe Alzieu

Duc dÁlbe Raid 2022

So good to see James Baeckler winning this Duc d’Albe 2022 Edition, along Christophe Alzieu they prevailed over the top Nacra France Teams. James is 64yrs old and continues to be in super racing form, sailing a Scorpion / 1D DS.

We had a long history of tough open discussions with him in the F18 WC more than a decade ago, but we always went full bore front and open. I remember talking to him at LA 2012, telling that discussions were just that, and it was clear we both wanted the best for the F18.

No matter the different views, I respect plenty those putting the hours for the Class, but more when you are working with a hardcore F18 sailor who actually race F18 and has a direct feedback on the IF18CA most important matters, which always are related to on the water racing aspects. He retired from F18 French Class management this year after decades of leading their fleet. Great way to celebrate!

15yrs ahead I hope to keep half the drive James has right now . He doesn’t like much exposure… thus we gave him deserved recognition without naming him too much… (ha!) Congrats James Baeckler! Keep sending that F18.

Complete series results at ducdalbe.com/ / Resultats. This regatta was held past weekend but saw results later on.

All images Duc d’Albe, more at Club Mulcoque de Hyeres fb here.