Maltese sailing pioneer Arthur Podesta has passed away. The Royal Malta Yacht Club said he will long be remembered for his love of sailing and for being a regular competitor in local and foreign regattas.

"Arthur, together with handful of others, contributed substantially towards the development of sailing as a sport for Malta and Gozo. He excelled at reaching across all levels of society to communicate his passion for the sea and sailing."

The club said it was particularly poignant that Mr Podesta passed away a few days before the start of the 36th Rolex Middle Sea Race, the race with which his name was practically synonymous.

He participated in every race since the inaugural start in 1968 and was also part of the crew on Josian, winner of the race in 1968.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday at 2pm at St. John of the Cross, Parish Church, Ta'Xbiex.

 

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