Zammit Tabona claims top spot in Reggio regatta

Thomas Zammit Tabona once again proved he is a man for all seasons as he sailed his Laser 4.7 to first place in the international regatta organised by the Circolo Velico Reggio last weekend.

The youngster managed to retain first place despite mounting pressure from seasoned Italian sailor Marco Traversa, of Lega Navale Monopoli.

Malta's only female representative, young Ella Fleri Soler, also competed extremely well, finishing in fourth place, just four points outside a podium position.

This was the first trip for both sailors in the new boats and what they lacked in experience, they certainly made up for in overall knowledge and sailing capability. Both looked strong throughout the course and will be delighted with their exploits.

The small contingent kept Malta's flag flying high in both the Laser and Optimist series as Edward Fleri Soler placed third overall, just ahead of Thomas Bonello Ghio. Alex Esposito, Zachary Zammit, Nicola Manduca and Justin Busuttil also gained valuable experience travelling with the Maltese team.

Italian sailor Massimo Attina was the overall winner in the Optimist series. As for the Maltese participants, they can take heart from a commendable result in an event where the spirit of true sportsmanship prevailed.

Relying on the expertise of Anna Rossi and national team coach Jean Paul Fleri Soler, the young group did their country proud, despite the notoriously strong currents in the Messina Strait.

Teams from Greece, Sicily as well as the Italian national squad were present for this competition which was supervised by race officer Peter Dimech.

It was definitely a fruitful experience for the Maltese sailors whose sights are now set on this weekend's National Championships at the Birżebbuġa Sailing Club.