Record fleet begins to assemble
The prospect of a record fleet for the 25th Rolex Middle Sea Race remains strong. On the closing date of entries last Saturday, 53 yachts had registered. Of those, 34 have already arrived in Malta to commence preparations. These include the three maxis...
The prospect of a record fleet for the 25th Rolex Middle Sea Race remains strong. On the closing date of entries last Saturday, 53 yachts had registered.
Of those, 34 have already arrived in Malta to commence preparations. These include the three maxis Alfa Romeo, Black Dragon and Damiani Our Dream.
While the 607-nautical miles offshore race, that takes the fleet on a course anticlockwise around Sicily, sets off on Saturday, some of the fleet are to take part in a series of coastal races being run by the Royal Malta Yacht Club (RMYC).
Not only do these races offer the crews an opportunity to check their yachts, sails and other equipment, they also give newcomers a feel for the unique staring arena that is the Marsamxett Harbour.
The RMYC's start and finish line stretches from the clubhouse within the 18th century Fort Manoel to one of the 16th century bastions of Valletta.
Today should see the fleet participate in a 36-mile race out and back to Filfla, starting at 10 a.m. The crews will then sail in a 27-mile race to Comino tomorrow. This programme may change if the current light winds prevail.
The 53-yacht fleet features a number of previous winners including Jammin (former Market Wizard, winner in 2002) and Strait Dealer, winner in 2001.
Black Dragon is the sister ship to last year's winner Nokia Enigma. Alfa Romeo is participating in her last European regatta after two successful seasons. She is more than capable of shattering the existing record of 64 hours 49 minutes 57 seconds set by Zephyrus IV in 2000.