Navy beaten by Vikings

During the recent visits of British Royal Navy vessels HMS Ocean and RFA Fort Rosalie, the Illustrious Cup was contested by a sailing team from the visiting ships and the local Vikings Sailing Club.

This cup was first presented 10 years ago by HMS Illustrious for competitions between visiting Royal Navy units and a team of Maltese yachtsmen. The first match, in September 2001, was won by the Vikings.

The latest race was run using identical Laser boats, with the format allowing all 15 visiting sailors to compete. In the end, local knowledge and experience helped the home Vikings team prevail.

British High Commissioner Louise Stanton started the first race and returned to present the trophy to the victors. The event was rounded off with the two teams exchanging gifts.

HMS Ocean and RFA Fort Rosalie expressed their gratitude to the commodore, Captain Richard Gabriele, members of the Vikings Sailing Club, and to Anton Valentino, former president of the Malta Sailing Federation, who made the arrangements with the home team and served as race officer.