Bitter Start, Happy Ending in Marmaris

On the morning when the races were to begin (Monday, October 30, 2017), as I was entering Netsel Marina with my boat to follow the 28th Marmaris International Race Week, there was activity at the Marmaris Port quay.

Police vehicles, an ambulance were on shore, and Coast Guard boats and divers were busy at sea.

While entering, guessing that an incident had occurred on one of the boats moored at the port, it was being said that there was a male body in the water.

When I came alongside the pontoon, I was confronted with the unexpected tragic news. Divers had just recovered the lifeless body of the German Klaus Ottes, who was going to provide us with his boat to follow the races during the event.

Klaus, who fell into the water staggering while going to his boat at the end of the opening cocktail the night before, was known as a lover of Turkey and Marmaris.

We had previously published our news article titled "Hitting Each Other" about Klaus Ottes, who allocated his boat to the club as a referee boat for the MIYC Winter Trophies. In this article, we mentioned Klaus, a sea lover and photographer. We had touched upon how his boat was damaged by colliding boats during start moments while providing this service.

Klaus, owner of a software company in Germany, had liquidated his business and had been living on his boat named CATCH UP in Marmaris for 5 years.

He would frequently share the beauties he witnessed on our coasts and beautiful shots from yacht races on his social media accounts.

This shocking news that broke in the morning hours initially stunned the Marmaris International Race Club management, while also plunging those who knew him into mourning on the morning of our country's 28th race with the most international participation.

Later, footage from security cameras regarding how Klaus fell into the sea in the related news greatly increased our sorrow.

While life went on and the organization continued, the event with 114 boats and athletes from 13 countries participating had to begin.

The most difficult task fell to the club administrators, referees, friends, and press members who knew him closely.

It was necessary to start the races without revealing the tragic incident to the racers who came from their countries to Marmaris for this event.

We were hastily allocated another boat and set out to sea.

Following criticism and suggestions received as a result of previous years' practices, MIYC management this year divided the racing fleet into two main groups: IRC and CHARTER. CHARTER groups were further divided into 2 groups: CHARTER CRUISER and CHARTER PERFORMANCE. The races will be managed by 2 jury panels and will take place on different courses. Can Giray will serve as Principal Race Officer in the races, Münteha Çalışkan as Chief Umpire in IRC Groups, and Behzat Tümanbay in Charter groups.

Meteorology site forecasts indicated that the wind would be low on the first day of race week and would blow this way throughout the day.

Today the CHARTER Groups' race will take place outside Marmaris Harbor, while IRC 1-2-3-4-5 groups will race inside the bay. We will first follow the CHARTER groups and head towards Marmaris Strait in their wake.

A start line was set up at the strait exit, and the committee will start the race as soon as they find wind. Start procedures begin when the wind slightly exceeds 5 Knots. The unpredictable wind grants starting rights at 11:45 to CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1-2 groups, at 11:50 to CHARTER CRUISER 1-2, and at 11:55 to CHARTER CRUISER 3 groups. The boats racing on the geographical route first headed to Kargataşı Island, then to the turning buoy. The boats finding themselves on the course with the week's first whistles completed the race by developing tactics with the variable winds of different positions.

Despite the race outside taking place even with light wind, the conditions inside the bay remained insufficient for a long time.

Around 14:00, with a barely audible whistle, they started racing on a sausage course with offset and gate turns, set up in front of Yalancı Boğaz. As the leading boats were completing the first lap, the wind began to shift and continued. The committee was abandoning the race it had started this time. After the abandonment, it took time for the unstable wind to settle. Start procedures began with the wind stabilizing at 235 degrees.

At 16.25, the start was given to IRC 3-4, at 16.30 to IRC 5, and at 16.35 to IRC 1-2 groups. As the wind gradually strengthened, finishes began to be recorded. While the committee was planning to hold another race, they abandoned their decision and as darkness began to fall, the entire fleet was heading towards Netsel Marina.

TAYFUN ÖZTUNA

(Lady Sollare)

“While the fleet outside the harbor was able to race by finding some wind, a considerable amount of wind was expected inside the harbor. Southerly wind was dominant. When the wind completely reversed on the designated course, the course was recreated. This time a beautiful opening race took place on a course with winds reaching 11 Knots. Due to time not allowing for a 2nd race, we completed the day with a single race. It was a nice opening.”

At the end of the day;

In IRC 1 ANYTHING-DERE CONSTRUCTION(Tur)

In IRC 2 EXTREM WAYS(Usd)

In IRC 3 PALAMUT-CPM SAILING(Tur)

In IRC 4 ISKORPIT(Rus)

In IRC 5 BOOMERANG-UK SAILS(Tur)

In CHARTER CRUISER 1             ANTARES(Rus)

In CHARTER CRUISER 2             LORELEY(Rus)

CHARTER CRUISER 3 at             UKSEL D2(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1 at GREY GOOSE(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 2 at MAD TORO(Rus)

These were the boats leaving their competitors behind.

Boats that were rivals on the seas during the day were strengthening their friendships in the event area in the evening.

The trophies were finding their owners as NETSEL MARINA CUP.

On Tuesday, October 31, 2017, we followed the IRC groups as the press boat. This fleet was going to make their start from the start line set up at the strait exit. As the downwind start moments approached, the wind was blowing at 8-10 knots.

At 11:05 IRC 1-2, at 11:10 IRC 3-4, and at 11:15 IRC 5 groups were given their starts.

With the Pupa exit, boats heading towards Kargıtaşı Island entered into a nose-to-nose, board-to-board struggle with their competitors as the wind increased its strength. Especially the relentless competition among the IRC 3 group boats began to draw attention, and this rivalry continued until the last race of the week. After the buoy turn, as boats approached the finish line with upwind sailing, the coastline and open water preferences were choices that determined the wind's effective areas and consequently the speed.

EROL ALGÜL

(Rain)

"The start on the 2nd day was taken in very beautiful weather. Since we exited through the Bosphorus, the spinnakers were working. Westerly wind was dominant. Showers coming from Turunç created exciting moments. The showers continued until we rounded Kargıtaşı Island. At times, weather reaching 18-20 Knots was dominant. There was a lot of congestion at the Kargıtaşı Island turn. Until reaching the return buoy, competitors didn't let go of each other. The buoy turns created beautiful images. Later, there was weather with showers reaching 20-22 Knots. On the return, some boats preferred the coastline while others preferred the open water. Those who chose the coastline gained a bit more advantage. As we approached the finish, the wind decreased and boats got closer to each other. Overall, it was beautiful weather, everyone was satisfied."

At the end of the races,

In IRC 1, ANYTHING-DERE CONSTRUCTION(Tur)

IRC 2 COURRIER DU COEUR(Rus)

IRC 3 KARAVIDA-CHEESE SAILING(Tur)

IRC 4 LETTLAND(Lat)

IRC 5 BOOMERANG-UK SAILS(Tur)

CHARTER CRUISER 1 PANDEİA(Blg)

CHARTER CRUISER 2 LORELEY(Rus)

CHARTER CRUISER 3 BY DENİZ(Ger)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1 GREY GOOSE(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 2 MAD TORO(Rus)

These were the boats that left their competitors behind.

At the cocktail event organized in the evening at Netsel Marina event area, the day's winners received their trophies.

On Wednesday, 01.11.2017, the sun did not fail to show its smiling face over Marmaris. At the same time, a memorial ceremony at sea would be held for Klaus Otte, whom we lost 2 days before the race. His daughter Ella Kimmig, who came to Marmaris from Germany for this ceremony, was also present. A one-minute moment of silence was observed along with flowers cast upon the sea. At this moment, all his loved ones, especially his daughter, experienced emotional moments.

Good wind was waiting for the fleet on the course. With settled conditions both inshore and offshore, the race committee only had to set up the course. We would be following the IRC groups again. This group would race inside Marmaris Harbor. With settled wind, buoy race preparations are starting. It looks like the fleets will also hold their 2nd races today. Wind is ready, committee is fast, what more could you ask for.

First start is given at 11:10 to IRC 3-4 groups, followed by IRC 1-2 at 11:15 and IRC 5 groups at 11:20. Wind is helping the race in all areas. Buoy roundings present energetic scenes with competitors' neck-and-neck battles.

While finishes of the first race are being taken, procedures for the 2nd race immediately begin. At 13:10, with slightly stronger wind, IRC 1-2 groups, followed by other groups, start running on the course for the day's 2nd race. A truly neck-and-neck, enjoyable race takes place. Both for the racer and the spectator.

CUMHUR GÖKOVA

(Gökova Sailing)

“The race took place in magnificent weather. The wind settled immediately and did not shift direction. It was not light, not hard enough to cause a crash gybe. It was a beautiful day for good sailors to sail their boats well.

The jury evaluated this situation very well. We can do nothing but thank them. We wish many great races.”

At the end of the first race of the day,

In IRC 1 ANYTHING-DERE CONSTRUCTION(Tur)

In IRC 2 ST ANNA(Rus)

In IRC 3 KARAVIDA-CHEESE SAILING(Tur)

In IRC 4 MX(Rus)

In IRC 5 CLAVELLA(Ned)

In CHARTER CRUISER 1             ANTARES(Rus)

In CHARTER CRUISER 2             HIDE AWAY(Rus)

In CHARTER CRUISER 3             YUKSEL D2(Rus)

In CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1 GREY GOOSE(Rus)

In CHARTER PERFORMANCE 2 MAD TORO(Rus)

These were the boats that left their competitors behind.

At the end of the 2nd race of the day,

In IRC 1 ANYTHING-DERE CONSTRUCTION(Tur)

In IRC 2 EXTREM WAYS(Usd)

IRC 3 KARAVIDA-CHEESE SAILING(Tur)

IRC 4 ISKORPIT(Rus)

IRC 5 CLAVELLA(Ned)

CHARTER CRUISER 1             ANTARES(Rus)

CHARTER CRUISER 2             LORELEY(Rus)

CHARTER CRUISER 3             YUKSEL D2(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1 GREY GOOSE(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 2 MAD TORO(Rus)

These were the boats leaving their competitors behind.

In the evening at Netsel Marina event area, this time there was Setur Marinas Night. The trophies were presented by Setur Marina Managers from across Turkey and the General Managers.

We also took this opportunity to discuss the event with Mr. Emre DORUK, General Manager of Setur Marinas.

EMRE DORUK

(General Manager of Setur Marinas)

“As Setur Marinas, we are hosting such a large event at Netsel Marina. We are also sponsoring the Netsel Marina and Setur Marinas nights. This most comprehensive yacht race in Turkey started 28 years ago with a few small boats. As of today, we are hosting 114 boats and many foreign sailors here. We are happy to provide the best service in managing the entry and exit procedures of 114 boats simultaneously and their accommodation. At the same time, as Netsel Marina, we are providing all possible support to Marmaris International Yacht Club. Our support continues and will continue in winter trophies and other events. Because these clubs must definitely be supported.”

02.11.2017 Thursday the entire fleet will race together on the geographical route in the outer harbor. The starts are from the location in front of the cave at the strait exit. The wind is blowing around 10 Knots. On the 35 nautical mile long route, the yachts will round Kızıl Ada. There is no settled wind. In fact, meteorology wind forecasts show values below the race limits. Let’s see what the notorious Kadırga Burnu Kızıl Ada stretch will do today?

A long day that will even extend into the night. The start and finish buoys are even illuminated. The wind, performances, and tactical battles indicate they will be decisive.

At 10:10, IRC 1-2 groups start racing first. Start intervals are 10 minutes. At 10:20 IRC 3-4, at 10:30 IRC 5, at 10:40 CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1-2, at 10:50 CHARTER CRUISER 1-2, at 11:00 CHARTER CRUISER 3 execute their starts.

From the start, spinnakers are filling and emptying. As the boats approach Kadırga Point, the wind starts to drop. Some boats head offshore to try the wind in open waters. Some prefer to go along the coast, but the wind dies down completely and there's no end to it. The waiting continues. Rhodes channel is full of boats of all sizes. Some are trying to go the opposite way. They will set course towards Ekincik-Göcek direction, find the wind offshore and round Kızıl Ada. Calm conditions prevail for a long time. Then it makes its appearance on the course with its famous gusts and squalls. Kızıl Ada greets those approaching with its typical character. Squalls, strong gusts. On the return, different regimes. When Kadırga Point is rounded, hello finish line. But not everyone is like this. The usual order changes, finishes continue until midnight. No event tonight, even if there was, no one could come, most crews approach the finish after dark.

ZAFER ÖZNUR

(Hayta)

“Starts were taken downwind from in front of the Cave at the strait exit. Initially there was 10-12 Knots of wind. After Kargıtaşı Island, the wind began to drop. It completely died in front of Çiftlik. After a while, the wind stopped throughout the entire course. It split into 2 groups as those approaching Rhodes and those going along the coast. Preferences were effective here. On the return from Kızılada, 18 Knots were seen and the return began. At times squalls were leaving the boats in difficult situations. On the return, the wind that dropped in front of Çiftlik rose to 16 Knots at Kadırga Point. After this return, the boats finished upwind.

The route was very enjoyable, our race lasted 6 hours. We adapted to the wind’s caprices.”

At the end of the long day,

In IRC 1 MERSİN YELKEN AKADEMİSİ(Tur)

In IRC 2 ST ANNA(Rus)

In IRC 3 KARAVIDA-CHEESE SAILING(Tur)

In IRC 4 MX(Rus)

In IRC 5 M2(Tur)

In CHARTER CRUISER 1             ANTARES(Rus)

In CHARTER CRUISER 2             HIDE AWAY(Rus)

In CHARTER CRUISER 3             YUKSEL D2(Rus)

In CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1 CHOST RIDER(Rus)

In CHARTER PERFORMANCE 2 MARGO(Rus)

Boats are leaving their competitors behind.

03.11.2017 Friday is the last race day. A single race is planned. All groups will start from the same starting line at ten-minute intervals. There is almost no wind. The committee's job is difficult. The starting line has been set up off Yalancı Boğaz where the wind is relatively stronger. Buoys are placed in front of the castle and Mares. The wind direction doesn't change much, good. But its strength keeps changing. After the starts are completed, the sea is like a mirror at the turning marks. Tactics, efforts, pushing and shoving to avoid collisions. The race, expected to be short, is completed with quite difficulty in such wind.

With the final whistle, almost everyone's rankings are now clearly revealed.

MUSTAFA TEZCAN

(M2)

"On a day when there was very little wind, the committee managed to give the starts. With the start taken in low wind conditions, the race took place in different positions on the course in different winds. This is in Marmaris's nature. We found great opportunities for racing. It became a battle of tactics. Overall, this race week was an event where the races most loved by racers took place. It was very good that the last day was completed in an atmosphere that proved this idea."

At the night closing ceremony, the entire week's competition was displayed on the giant screen before the participants.

MIYC old and new board members are striving to perfectly conclude the event. First, the day's trophies and then the overall results of the classes are announced. As the trophies find their owners one by one and the event area empties, sadness descends upon Marmaris. There are exactly 364 days until the same event...Endless thanks to those who have successfully organized such a great event in our waters for years, and to those who contributed with their participation and assistance.

At the end of the 28th Marmaris International Race Week, the winners of first place trophies in their classes are;

IRC 1 ANYTHING-DERE CONSTRUCTION(Tur)

IRC 2 EXTREM WAYS(Usd)

IRC 3 KARAVIDA-CHEESE SAILING(Tur)

IRC 4 LETLAND(Lat))

IRC 5 BOOMERANG-UK SAILS(Tur)

CHARTER CRUISER 1             ANTARES(Rus)

CHARTER CRUISER 2             LORELEY(Rus)

CHARTER CRUISER 3 at             YUKSEL D2(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 1 at GREY GOOSE(Rus)

CHARTER PERFORMANCE 2 at MAD TORO(Rus)

İHSAN KALAYCI

(MIYC President)

“Last year, the number of foreign participants decreased, particularly from Russia, due to the conditions in our country. We set out with that concern. At the same time, we were thinking of taking the organization a notch higher. The idea of dividing the fleet into two, which we had been planning for years, was a risk. This was also an implementation that doubled the costs. With changing conditions, Russians started coming back. We achieved 114 boat participation. This was a training race for us. Next year we will go even further, and in our actual 30th year we aim for a big explosion. Everything went smoothly in these races. The wind was always on our side, we had no accidents. Everything worked like clockwork. We hosted nearly a thousand racers from 13 countries. We are in particularly good solidarity with the Greeks. Greek boats delayed their haulout and participated in our event. We also participate in their events.

This organization made a serious contribution to Marmaris economy at the end of the season. We can call it the finale of Marmaris. A special feature of our club is that the presidents before me also support the organizations with all their strength.”

OĞUZ ÖZDOĞAN

(MIYC Commodore)

“I followed the races from the committee boat. We started discussing what we could do with our referees well in advance. We went through many stages of thinking and organized these races. When the first race start was given, I understood that we made the right decision. Our only fear was that the weather wouldn’t be as we wanted. Our teams who joined the race committee from Istanbul successfully accomplished quick course setting and changes in coordination with the principal race officer. We are considering working with these teams in the winter trophies as well.”

CAN GİRAY

(Principal Race Officer)

“This year there were 2 separate committees, 2 separate fleets on the course. Both committees had 2 separate jury panels and Principal Race Officers. I was the person shuttling between these 2 committees. While the principal race officers handle administrative matters, I provide them technical support. All teams are separate from each other. Course setters have their own boats, flags, everything. We separated the fast classes from the cruising classes. IRC boats raced on race-oriented courses. In cruising classes we used more geographical routes. In our last 2 races we raced all groups jointly and ran the crowded fleet of the 28th year as a visual show. The weather didn’t bother us for 4 days but on the 5th day the classic Marmaris weather made itself felt. Of course there was nothing to be done, we raced as much as possible. The geographical route gave us a lot of trouble. The last night until morning all the referee colleagues were discussing this. Either the Baba Island turn or the exact opposite Kızıl Island turn would take place. We kept consulting the Coast Guard and meteorology. Around 04:00 in the morning we decided that Kızıl Island would be more suitable. Our most difficult moments were when the wind changed direction during starts given at 10-minute intervals.participation situations occurred. It always made us anxious. The congratulations at the end of the race were also our happiest moments.”