RECORD 123 YACHTS TO COMPETE IN 2014 ROLEX MIDDLE SEA RACE
A record-breaking 123 yachts from more than 20 countries will cross thestarting line of the Rolex Middle Sea Race on 18 October, reflecting theinternational stature of this popular offshore race organised by the RoyalMalta Yacht Club.
The unprecedented number of entrants – a 24 percent increase over the 99yachts competing in 2013 – includes boats from as far away as the United Statesand Australia along with thirteen yachts from Malta. More than 15 boats willcompete for the first time.
The Line Honours favouriteis Igor Simcic’s Maxi, Esimit Europa 2, skippered by multiple Olympic and America’sCup winner Jochen Schumann. The 100ft canting keel maxi has taken line honourvictories in the years from 2010 – 2012, becoming only the second yacht in thehistory of the RMSR to take it three times in a row. Unable to compete in lastyear’s edition due to damage suffered on the mast on their way to the race, thecrew is returning with the goal of taking line honours for an unprecedentedfourth occasion.
Now in its 35th year, the Rolex Middle Sea Race (RMSR) is a fixture inthe season, ranking alongside the Rolex Fastnet, Rolex Sydney–Hobart andNewport-Bermuda as a “must do” race.
“For yet another year, the Rolex Middle Sea Race has grown in the numberof boats that have committed to compete in this ever popular offshore race,”said Godwin Zammit, Commodore of the Royal Malta Yacht Club. “There are anumber of factors which contribute to the increase in participation. Naturally,the scenic yet challenging course plays a very important role, however one mustmention the renowned hospitality that our Club offers its guests, which isspoken of highly by participants, often leading competitors to sign up simplythrough word of mouth recommendations. Last, but not least, is our strongconnection with other Clubs and our affiliation with the Royal Ocean RacingClub.”
The event’s fascination is largely drawn from its alluring, 608-nautical-mileracecourse – a rigorous anti-clockwise loop around Sicily which introduces numerous “corners”that present changing and complex meteorological shifts. The route includes thedeep azure waters around Sicily including theAeolian and Egadi Islands, as well asPantelleria and Lampedusa. One of the most stunning vistas is Stromboli,the active volcano which is a course mark.
Challenging, enchanting and historic, the Rolex Middle Sea Race starts inMalta’s spectacular Grand Harbourat 11am on the 18 October.
“Security and safety of both racing teams and spectators has always beenimperative for us and a number of procedures have been put in place. We haveworked closely with the Armed Forces of Malta and Transport Malta to ensure that only authorised vesselsauthorised by the Race Committee will be allowed into the Grand Harbour.Both entities will be present on the day to ensure that all procedures arestrictly adhered to on the day”, said Peter Dimech, Race Committee Chair andPrinciple Race Officer.
Supported by Rolex since 2002, the race commences and finishes in Malta.Winners will be announced throughout the week with an award ceremony wrappingup the week-long event on 25 October.
The Royal Malta Yacht Clubthanks the general public for their co-operation in ensuring that all safetyinstructions issued by the relevant Authorities are adhered to, in order toensure the safety of all concerned. Moreover, boats in the vicinity of the racecourses are advised to navigate with caution and to keep a sharp lookout.
Journalists wishing to use the attached sailing photo please Credit: RMYC. (Left to right: RMYC's John C. Ripard, Peter Dimech, Commodore Godwin Zammit with the Hon. Chris Agius, MP.)
For more information, boat tracking and up-to-date news on the RolexMiddle Sea Race please visit any of the media channels listed below.
Website: www.rolexmiddlesearace.com
Yacht Tracker: www.rolexmiddlesearace.com/tracker/#pt
Yacht Blogs: http://blog.rolexmiddlesearace.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RolexMiddlSeaRace=
Twitter: @rolexmiddlesea and @rmyachtclub