August is synonymous with topnotch events, and the Gstaad Yacht Club (GYC) knows how to contribute to this notion with a blend of social gatherings and sporting excellence. Two of its standout events, the Rally & Yachting and Golf & Yachting, brought together enthusiasts and participants for unforgettable experiences.

Rally & Yachting: Classic Cars and Picturesque Roads
On the first weekend of August, the Gstaad Yacht Club and its longstanding partner, the Gstaad Automobile Club, orchestrate the classic GYC/ GAC Rally & Yachting. In 2023, this event saw a record number of 33 registered vehicles, from meticulously maintained classic cars to contemporary models.

The event commenced with a formal registration and welcome drink in Feutersoey on August 4th, setting the stage for a weekend of friendly competition and camaraderie. Despite challenging weather conditions, the “Prix Wehren” special stage kicked off, with participants timing a 500-meter distance to determine their proximity to a pre-calculated ideal time.

While adverse weather cancelled the remote-controlled sailing competition, Victor Gutzwiller and Lara Wild secured victory in the driving category aboard a Lancia Delta Integrale, earning an overnight stay with dinner at the Auberge d’Hermance on Lake Geneva. Saturday brought sunny skies and a scenic route that crisscrossed three Swiss Cantons, treating participants to breath-taking landscapes. The roadbook, a well-guarded secret until breakfast at the Alpina Gstaad, guided the drivers through picturesque locations like Rougemont and Rossinière. Coffee breaks and navigational challenges punctuated the journey.

Le Mirador Hotel hosted a midday stop for aperitifs and lunch with a stunning view of Lac Léman. The day concluded with a unique water-carrying challenge before reaching the finish line in Rougemont.

An evening Prize Giving ceremony celebrated the winners, with Raphael Eschmann and Renate Eschmann driving an Aston Martin DB7 Coupé clinching first place. The event also featured a raffle for a Breitling Top Time – Shelby Cobra watch, the proceeds of which would support the GYC Racing Team Sailors.

Golf & Yachting: Sports, Fun, and Friendship
August in Gstaad signifies top-tier events, and the Gstaad Yacht Club’s 7th GYC Golf & Yachting is no exception. Under clear skies and promising weather, the event unfolded on August 11th, offering participants a unique blend of golf and sailing.

The day began with participants teeing off at the golf course. This year, there were options to play either 9 or 18 holes, accommodating golfers of all levels. To commemorate the 7th edition of the Trophy, personalised GYC golf balls were provided to players.

The match began at 9:00 AM, with teams teeing off every ten minutes. The scenic course, set against the backdrop of Gstaad’s magnificent landscape, provided a challenging yet enjoyable experience. A snack break after the first nine holes refreshed participants.

Following a delightful lunch, participants shifted gears from golf to sailing for the America’s Cup model-boat sailing competition at Hornberg Lake. Although the winds were initially unpredictable, the regattas proved highly competitive, keeping the excitement alive until the final moments.

As the day came to a close, participants and guests gathered at the GYC Clubhouse for the Prize Giving Ceremony. Stephan Schneider and Pascal Fischer secured the top spot, with a slew of awards recognising nearest-to-the-pin, longest drives, and more.

These two events, Rally & Yachting and Golf & Yachting exemplify the Gstaad Yacht Club’s commitment to creating memorable experiences that combine sports, fun, and camaraderie as well as helping the young GYC Racing Team Sailors achieve their dreams, as all proceedings from these events go towards the young sailors.

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