Anyone down by the lake near the buvette of Crans on August 1st, got a fabulous sight of a flotilla of boats following the new Alinghi 5 boat as it sailed between Lausanne and Geneva. With a clear view of Mont Blanc, a light breeze and beautiful weather, there could not have been better sailing conditions and setting for the team on Switzerland's national day. Those on shore were poised with binoculars to get their first glimpse of the giant catamaran which will be the America's Cup defender.
However not everyone was following the boat at great speed, some were there just to potter about quietly around on the lake.
Meanwhile back in Nyon, the town is gearing itself up for more music festivals and other events, the main one being FAR, the festival of arts vivants (living arts). This takes place from the 10th to the 22nd August in various venues across the town. More on this later but you can take a look at the programme on their website. Also this weekend it's the Triathlon of Nyon which takes place on the 8th and 9th of August. It's not too late to register if you want to take part as on line inscriptions are taken until 10:00 on the 7th August. Note that there will be traffic restrictions around the town on the 9th August and the swimming pool between 16:00 and 20:00 on the 8th August will be used for the triathlon's purposes.