Beneteau Cup dates moved back to November

The 2009 Beneteau Cup has been billed for November 13-15.

The event, organised by Mediterranean Yacht Sales, local agents for Beneteau Sailing and Motor Yachts, draws around 40 Beneteau owners to pit their skills against each other in a race which the organisers call "a success built on a blend of racing spirit and family fun."

The race was started on a small scale in 2002 but has been a growing success ever since.

"The Beneteau Cup has drawn a regular entry of boats and the repeated participation of its major sponsors, Medcomms and Atlas Insurance. This is a testament to the success of our race," commented Alfred Manduca, of Mediterranean Yacht Sales.

The regatta consists of three or four coastal races, mostly depending on weather conditions, which take place between Friday and Sunday on the race weekend.

Outside the races, the event also offers a series of social activities as well as the ever popular prize-giving ceremony bringing the Beneteau community together.

The Beneteau Cup gives an added dimension to local racing as the majority of participants are racing against similar or identical boats which, according to most sailors, is far more exciting than handicap racing. This year, races will be moving back to their traditional time-frame in November.

"The element of risky weather adds to the excitement of the event, this is the conclusion that we have drawn from the comments we got," Mark Vassallo, race official, said.

The briefing of the Beneteau Cup will be held on November 10 and 11.