Abanca 52 Super Series Baiona Sailing Week

At the Abanca 52 Super Series Baiona Sailing Week, the US team Quantum Racing, led by owner and helmsman Doug DeVos, triumphed. In this first battle of the tenth anniversary season of the leading international monohull professional series, Quantum Racing prevailed over two German teams. The “Platoon,” piloted by owner Harm Müller-Spreer, narrowly edged out Hasso and Tina Plattner’s “Phoenix.”

As a drone pilot for the TV team, I was able to capture impressive footage of Baiona Bay, which served as the backdrop for this exciting competition. The varying wind conditions from seven to 24 knots and the picturesque Ría de Vigo bay demanded all-round qualities from the sailors. During the first four days of the race, north winds were sailed, on the final day the sailors got to feel a challenging sea breeze from the southwest for the first time.

The “Phoenix” crew, starting under South African flag, showed their potential for the current season with two race wins this weekend. Nevertheless, it had to admit defeat to both Quantum Racing and Harm Müller-Spreer’s “Platoon” crew at the start.

As a drone pilot for the TV team, I had the opportunity to capture spectacular aerial footage of the regattas and the impressive performance of the teams. The stunning images show the intensity of the competition and the challenging conditions in which the sailors operated.

The event was an exciting start to the tenth anniversary season of the 52 Super Series, and I look forward to covering more races and next month’s TP52 World Championship off Cascais. The experience of being a drone pilot at this event has further sharpened my skills and increased my enthusiasm for sailing.