For an island steeped in maritime history and boasting one of the most spectacular harbours in the world, it is only fitting for Malta to host the opening stage for the RC44 Class Valletta Cup next spring.
On March 24, 2015, 13 teams will commence five days of intense racing off the Sliema coastline and inside the Grand Harbour.
The Valletta Cup saw its birth many months ago when a small team of passionate sailing enthusiasts successfully managed to attract the race to our islands. Sailors on board the boats will be predominantly America’s Cup and Olympic Class medal winners.
The race is a joint venture and is being co-hosted by the Ministry for the Economy and Yachting Events under the auspices of the Malta Sailing Federation and the Royal Malta Yacht Club, supported by the Malta Tourism Authority.
One of the RC44 Class yachts was recently in Malta – Team Artemis Racing Youth (SWE 4), owned by Gustaf Lidvall.
This team is one of the newest on the circuit but their potential should not be underestimated with Australian Olympic champion Nathan Outteridge calling tactics for the youth crew.
Also, the imminent arrival of Mag Racing (POL 44), followed by the rest of the fleet will soon see the setting up of the technical venue which will be at Pinto wharf.
Each team is made up of eight sailors on board, all supported by their respective shore crews, management staff and coaches.
As with other similar international sailing races held here, the event is expected to generate significant economic activity, not to mention the benefits for local sailors who will be able to socialise with the visiting contingents.
The organisers have already prepared a list of social and sailing activities in this regard and sponsors can also take the advantage of the ninth man on board.
Course laying will be carried out by a team of international mark layers who carry out the same exercise in other regattas organised by the renowned Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and Yacht Club Capri, among others.
Local Optimist Class coach Jean Paul Fleri Soler and Neil Borg, a Laser sailor and coach, will also form part of the course-laying team.
Race Officer will be Peter Reggio and the Race Committee boat will be identical to those used at the 2012 Olympics. This will be led by seasoned sailor Tonio Miggiani.