Emirates Double Handed Round Malta race today

The Royal Malta Yacht Club (RMYC), supported for the first time by Emirates Airlines, will be organising the Double Handed Round Malta race today.

Eighteen boats will compete in this coastal race and there was some good news for the crews yesterday as the weather forecast for today has slightly improved to give competitors a good run around the island.

"Emirates Airlines supports other sport around the world, including Team New Zealand in the America's Cup. So, it was quite natural for us to assist the Royal Malta Yacht Club in this race," Paul Fleri Soler, Emirates Manager for Malta and Cyprus, said.

RMYC Commodore, Georges Bonello DuPuis, thanked Emirates for their support during the skippers' briefing.

"Were it not for such sponsorships, the RMYC would find it difficult to organise its races. Sponsorships are always welcome, especially now that we're raising funds for a new club house," he said.

The race starts at 9 a.m. from Marsamxett with two course options available - a north about course towards Comino or the southern option, down towards the Freeport waters.

The first boats in are expected home late in the afternoon.