Ideal racing conditions were not forecast for the annual Royal Malta Yacht Club Ragusa Weekend Regatta held recently, leaving crews somewhat apprehensive at first.

However, a southeasterly wind, at times averaging up to 14 knots, emerged on race day allowing sailors to enjoy themselves for most of the race up to Sicily.

The unexpected conditions prevailed for most of the itinerary, enabling the first boats to reach Marina di Ragusa under spinnaker in the afternoon. The winds gradually died down and that meant a late arrival for some of the backtracking boats, with the last one reaching port at around 8pm.

Throughout the weekend, the Circolo Velici Iblei, under the auspices of the Federazione Italiana Vela, hosted the fifth Trofeo Achille Boroli Challenge and the third Hyblea Cup which consisted of a number of round-the-cans races outside the marina.

In all, a total of 15 boats took part – three of which were Maltese.

The races in Ragusa proved to be an all-Maltese affair with Maya Podesta’s Elusive 2 BOV sailing to victory in the Trofeo Achille Boroli Challenge.

Third place on the podium was occupied by Godwin Zammit, skipper of Inspiration.

The Hyblea Cup was won by Anton Calleja’s Lartista.

The RMYC crews took off for the race down to Valletta, 24 hours later.

This time, however, lack of wind compelled skippers to retire. This, however, did not dampen the good spirits with which the crews had left Marina di Ragusa after a great weekend of sailing.

During a presentations ceremony at the club in Ta’ Xbiex, the RMYC thanked its crews and the Circolo Velici Iblei and Porto Turistico di Marina di Ragusa for their contribution towards the smooth running of the regatta and weekend activities.

Ragusa Regatta winners

Overall, IRC: Sailaway – Ray Schembri.

IRC 1: Elusive 2 BOV – Maya Podesta.

IRC 2: 1. Sailaway – Ray Schembri; 2. Kaimana – David Anastasi, 3. Inspiration – Godwin Zammit.

IRC Cruisers: Nauti Buoy – Robert Ciantar.