2008 AUDI MedCup

Stage 3: CAGLIARI

Cagliari is famous in sailing terms because of its reliable winds, a luxury in the Mediterranean.     
    
The English novelist DH Lawrence, on approaching Cagliari in 1921 from the sea, described the appearance of the historic old town as 'like Jerusalem without trees' but Cagliari is famous with sailors for steady, solid, reliable and predictable winds much more so than some other areas of the Mediterranean.

Cagliari is the capital of the Italian province and island of Sardinia. Cagliari, like the rest of the island was first settled by Phoenicians, who called the town Kàralis or 'city of rock', and then by the Carthaginians.

This top sailing location has long been well known to Italians, but possibly less so to foreign racing sailors.
The Old Port has historic relevance, growing from its strategic value but from a visitor's point of view, the restaurants, coffee shops and bars to be found in its vicinity are probably a greater attraction.

All things considered, Cagliari is now a distinguished holiday destination, it offers all kind of interesting activities to visitors, ranging from historical monuments to magnificient beaches. Cagliari is rich in culture and has many historical monuments, which can be discovered by taking a short walk. Taking a stroll in the area around the Castle the visitor can explore narrow alleys, where the medieval atmosphere can still be felt. When in the old town one should not miss the limestone towers, which are still well preserved.
 

The 2008 Audi MedCup Circuit consists of 6 events in 4 countries and could see as many as 60 races sailed by the end of the season. In a no-discard race circuit, meaning that for the first time every race counts, extra emphasis is being placed by teams on their ability to finish consistently well and the reliability of their boats. Equipment failure and retirement will prove costly on points – as will tactical risk taking on the race course. Never before has a 60-race series been organised for a fleet of this calibre featuring the very best sailors in the world, be they Olympic medallists, America’s Cup winners, owner-drivers or One Design champions.

14 teams from 12 nations are now in the countdown to the 3rd event of the 2008 Audi MedCup Circuit to be run in Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy (30 June - 5 July). In Cagliari, as at all MedCup events, teams will race a 5-day regatta featuring as many as nine inshore races and one coastal race.