Discovering Arrecife: The Thrill of the Memorial Carmelo Hernández “Vuelta a Lobos”
Nestled in the stunning landscape of Lanzarote, Arrecife recently played host to an exhilarating sailing event—the Memorial Carmelo Hernández “Vuelta a Lobos.” This annual regatta not only celebrates maritime tradition but also serves as a qualifying round for the prestigious Final of the Campeonato de Canarias de Cruceros, scheduled for June. This year, the event took place on a sunny Saturday, showcasing some of the finest sailing talents in the region.
The Setting and Preparations
The event featured six vessels that set out on an exciting journey across 25 nautical miles, linking the picturesque island of Lanzarote with Isla de Lobos off the coast of Fuerteventura. As participants gathered early in the morning, anticipation hung in the air, reflecting the camaraderie of the sailing community. The day was marked by a robust north-northwest wind, reaching an impressive 25 knots, setting the stage for thrilling competition.
A Test of Skill and Stamina
Among the fleet was the Sorondongo VI, piloted by Miguel Ángel Armas, which was the first to navigate the full distance, clocking in at a remarkable 3 hours, 17 minutes, and 39 seconds. However, the sharp winds and challenging conditions made every second count, pushing each crew to their limits. The race was not solely about speed; it required savvy navigation, teamwork, and an intimate understanding of the elements at play.
The Race Results
As the day progressed, it became clear that the competition was fierce. Ultimately, the Antigua Craiova, helmed by Ye Cabrera, emerged victorious in the final classification on adjusted times, demonstrating their strategic prowess on the water. They were closely followed by Armas’s Sorondongo IV, which claimed second place, while Pedro J. Rodríguez’s Manitu took home the bronze.
Breaking down the results further, in Group A, the podium was rounded out by the Antigua Craiova, the Sorondongo VI, and the Salite, commanded by Felipe Brito. Group B saw the Manitu leading, followed by Miguel Pérez’s Pionene and Francisco Curbelo’s Altamar I securing the third position.
Looking Ahead: A Series of Events
The Memorial Carmelo Hernández serves as a vital selection event for sailors aspiring to compete in the Final of the Campeonato de Canarias de Cruceros. Following this regatta, participants will gear up for another exciting competition—the Regata a La Graciosa, taking place in two weeks. This upcoming event will finalize the list of five boats that will represent the region during the highly anticipated June championship.
Celebratory Moments: A Community Affair
At the end of this spirited competition, the camaraderie within the sailing community shone brightly. Sponsored by Lanzarote Sailing Paradise, all regatta participants were treated to a delightful lunch on Isla de Lobos, allowing them to relive the day’s highlights and share their experiences. The prize-giving ceremony was a particular highlight, where trophies were handed out to the winners; these unique awards were artistically crafted by local sculptor Bonilla, adding a personal touch to the accolades.
The Memorial Carmelo Hernández “Vuelta a Lobos” is much more than a race; it’s a celebration of sailing, skill, and the bond that unites those drawn to the open sea. As the sun sets over this picturesque landscape, the excitement for upcoming events only grows, promising even more thrilling moments on the horizon for sailing enthusiasts in Arrecife and beyond.
