Kostecki Continues to Bowl Over Kingpins

LANGKAWI, Malaysia (Dec. 4, 1997) — AmericaOne tactician John Kostecki continued to bowl over the kingpins of the match-racing scene in the Malaysia Challenge 1997 International Sailing Grand Prix today.

Best known for his expertise in offshore fleet racing, Kostecki has attacked this match-race regatta with a vengeance. He was undefeated again today, knocking off the likes of No. 2-ranked Ed Baird of the United States, No. 5-ranked Thierry Pepponet of France and No. 14-ranked Gavin Brady, originally from New Zealand but currently sailing under the Hong Kong flag.

"We had another good day today, winning the round by beating Baird, 2-0, in the final," said Kostecki who is unranked as a match-racing skipper. He credited his crew, which includes Morgan Larson of Capitola, Calif., for his outstanding performance in this event.

"It is very hot here in Malaysia. The sun and the humidity take a lot of you," he added. "Conditions have been breezy, with a lot of wipe outs downwind," Kostecki added.

He is now the overall points leader, with Baird second, both having qualified for the semi-final round on Saturday. The winner of tomorrow's round will advance to the semis, along with Kostecki, Baird and the next highest points scorer. If Kostecki or Baird wins again, the top two boats on points will advance.

The winner of each round receives a bonus of $2,000. Kostecki has won two rounds and Baird one. The competitors are sailing 25-foot Farr Platu sloops.

Standings after three of four elimination rounds:

1. John Kostecki, USA          11 pts.
2. Ed Baird, USA               10 pts.
3. Gavin Brady, Hong Kong       3 pts.
4. (tie) Bertrand Pacé, France  2 pts.
   Peter Gilmour, Japan         2 pts.
   Jesper Bank, Denmark         2 pts.

Read the previous story.

For complete results, visit the Malaysia Challenge Web site.