Wolverine takes top prize in Air Malta Syracuse Regatta

The 49th edition of the Malta Syracuse Regatta, which attracts some of the best Maltese and Sicilian boats, was held recently.

This was the second time that Air Malta has sponsored the event that saw the participation of 66 yachts.

Every year, this classic race, organised by the Royal Malta Yacht Club (RMYC) and the Lega Navale Italiana Sezione Siracusa, alternates start lines and this year finished at the Marsamxett Harbour.

Wolverine was the overall winner in the ORC category as well as first in IRC Class B and winner of the Easy Perfection Trophy. Maltese yacht Ton Ton topped the IRC category A. It was closely followed by the Italian boat Nautilus 227. Air Malta's Maltese Falcon II yacht came in third.

The prize-giving ceremony was held at the Grand Harbour Marina under Fort St Angelo. The prizes were presented by Brock Friesen, Air Malta's chief officer (commercial), and Georges Bonello Du Puis, the RMYC Commodore.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Dr Friesen confirmed Air Malta's support for this annual race.

"Air Malta is thrilled to be associated with the Royal Malta Yacht Club," Dr Friesen said. "Through this sponsorship, we are reaffirming Air Malta's commitment to the yachting community.

"We believe that such events give added value to the Maltese tourism product.

"We are confident that assisting similar events helps to attract more visitors to our islands, thus boosting the local tourism industry."

"This sponsorship is the latest addition to Air Malta's sports related initiatives," Dr Friesen added.

"We are also the sponsors of the Maltese Falcon II yacht with which we have extended our agreement this year. We believe this yacht represents our Maltese identity, perfectly promoting the Maltese cross wherever it sails."

Commenting on Air Malta's involvement in this race, Bonello Du Puis said: "We are extremely pleased that Air Malta has taken over the role of title sponsors for one of our club's most prestigious offshore races.

"The RMYC runs a wide variety of racing throughout the year and, with new destinations and sponsors, the 2009 season will provide action-packed sailing alongside the most comprehensive social calendar the club has ever been able to provide."