Cypriot sailors compete in Hyeres Grand Slam event

Cypriot sailors Natasa Lappa, Pavlos Kontides, and Marilena Makri are participating in the second Sailing Grand Slam of the year in Hyeres, France, from April 18 to April 25. Natasa Lappa, who competes in the IQFoil class, will race between April 20 and April 24, building on her career-best 32nd place at the first Grand Slam in Mallorca. Lappa recently completed a training program in Cyprus alongside New Zealander Brianna Orams. Pavlos Kontides, a two-time Olympic silver medalist, is competing in the ILCA7 class with over 130 other sailors. Kontides noted that his participation serves as part of his recovery process following an injury sustained earlier this year. He aims to regain competitive fitness ahead of the European Championship scheduled for May. The event marks a significant international competition that has been held for over 50 years. Organizers have introduced changes to the scoring system for this year's edition.