LANGKAWI: Local team ‘Mata Hari’ were given a tough fight on the day that mattered most in the 2018 Royal Langkawi International Regatta (RLIR) before triumphantly emerging victorious for the fourth time in a row in the IRC Class earlier today.
Of the two races held earlier today, Mata Hari, under the stewardship of Vincent Chan at first were almost robbed of victory by Char Chan though the Malaysians managed to prevail by securing second place during Race 7 which was won by Singapore’s Meraki, while Char Chan had to settle for third place.
Mata Hari emerged as overall champions based on the best of six races format where even though they were level on 9 points with Char Chan, but they managed to edge the Japanese because of superiority in terms of overall points collection from seven races.
"We are very happy because we were able to successfully defend our title,” said Vincent. “At first we were worried with Char Chan as they are five time champions of Thailand’s King’s Cup.
“But at the end of the day we managed to beat our closes opponents and I am more than happy with this achievement."
Mata Hari also had in their ranks experienced sailor, Jeremy Koo to count on.
"For next year, I believe the Japanese (Char Chan) and Meraki will return here whereas we will remain as the same team with the current complement. Now for next year the goal or target is to make it five years in a row.,” said Vincent.
Meanwhile, the local representative in the Ocean Rover Class, Chantique emerged victorious after getting the better of the Americans, Linda.