Bonello DuPuis hails success of local fleet

Competitors in the 2011 Rolex Middle Sea Race gathered in Valletta at midday yesterday for the official prize-giving.

In keeping with the island’s rich and fascinating culture and history, the prize-giving took place at the magnificent Mediterranean Conference Centre.

Close to 1,000 yachtsmen, guests, race officials and media showed up in force.

Welcoming the guests, Royal Malta Yacht Club Commodore Georges Bonello DuPuis said: “We’ve seen the race grow from a well-regarded event with a few entries from our nearby European neighbours, to a truly international offshore classic.”

This year’s race was one for the small boats and the local fleet in particular. With nine out of the top 10 boats overall all under 45 feet, the smaller boats finally had their day.

Despite fewer entries than in the past, four out of the top five yachts were from Malta.

“What can we say about our local fleet, Malta’s race surely went well,” a beaming Bonello DuPuis remarked. “Artie, I’m truly speechless at your achievement.

“What an amazing fleet of boats we have flying the eight-pointed cross. We have shown the true meaning of the spirit of Malta.”

The prestigious Rolex Middle Sea Race trophy and a Rolex yacht-master timepiece were then presented by Bonello DuPuis, Yann Dupasquier, of Rolex, and Malcolm Lowell, of Edward, Lowell & Co., to Lee Satariano and Christian Ripard, of Artie.

“I have to say we faced loyal and worthy opponents and I want to thank every one of them for making this race very challenging,” Satariano said.

The RLR line honours trophy and a Rolex chronometer went to the first monohull boat home, Igor Simcic’s Esimit Europe 2.

Dora Ripard presented the trophy to Matej Knez, from the Slovenian maxi. The Slovenian entry also clinched the Malta Tourism Award for first foreign boat home.

The trophy was presented by Mario De Marco, the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism.