Maltese boat Isomat Unica recently participated in the Solaris Days Event in Porto Rotondo, Sardegna.

The race, over two days, is open to Solaris yachts from all over the world. The Isomat Unica crew was made up of captain/helmsman – Jamie Sammut/John Cachia, Michael Albanozzo (navigation), Alan Sammut (mast), Anthony Demajo (pit), Joe Vassallo (bow), Jeremy Gravina (photography) and Kevin Dalli (logistics).

Isomat Unica arrived at their destination in Porto Rotondo three days after leaving Malta.

Lack of familiarity with the waters in Sardegna was certainly a disadvantage for the Maltese crew in the opening race.

Most of the leading boats hugged numerous islands along the course in order to avoid unfavourable currents. But Isomat Unica re-mained competitive as the crew placed their boat in a favourable position for the downwind home run to seal the win by a few seconds.

On Day Two of the regatta, the Maltese crew gained in confidence as they had become more familiar with the waters and also held the upperhand in a duel with a large Solaris 58.

Sammut and his men beat their way towards the rounding mark with a series of rewarding tacks and following a perfect hoist of its chute, Isomat Unica was again on a downwind home run steadily increasing the gap on its nearest rivals in the regatta.

The anxious Isomat Unica sailors were relieved when they heard the finish horn sound and that they had won the race with a healthy lead.

Later, Isomat Unica was confirmed as overall Solaris Cup Regatta winner at a well-attended prize-giving ceremony.

“We thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Porto Rotondo,” Sammut said.

“This was a result of great teamwork and synergy that the crew had built over the years of sailing together.

“We are also particularly grateful to our sponsors for supporting us in this regatta in Porto Rotondo. Although we have just returned from Sardegna we are already looking forward to next year’s race.”