2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race: A Thriving Annual Sailing Event
2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race Set to Expand
19 October 2024
The prestigious 45th Rolex Middle Sea Race is attracting an impressive fleet from across the sailing community, with entries still pouring in ahead of the event starting on Saturday, 19 October 2024, from Grand Harbour, Valletta, Malta.
The allure of this iconic Mediterranean offshore race continues to draw experienced sailors and passionate adventurers alike. Participants are enticed by the stunning scenery, the strategic complexities of the race, and the chance to test their determination and resilience against a formidable course.
Entries for the race will officially close on Friday, 20 September. For detailed race information and updates, participants can visit the official notice board.
Highlighted among the entrants is Seng Huang Lee’s impressive 30.48-meter (100-foot) Maxi, Scallywag, helmed by seasoned round-the-world sailor David Witt. This powerful vessel stands out as one of the most formidable competitors to date. Meanwhile, Andrea Recordati, the overall winner of the 2023 race, will return with his 28.3-meter (93ft) Judel Vrolijk designed Maxi, Bullitt, promising an exciting competition at the forefront of the monohull fleet.
Another significant addition is the Volvo 70 Dinzer Doo, formerly known as Ericsson I, entered by Daniel Thomas and his daughter Mika from the United States. While the crew may be new to the Rolex Middle Sea Race, the boat itself boasts a successful racing history, having secured a close second place on the water in 2020.
Also joining the prestigious line-up is Diego Paternò Castello from Italy with his 21-meter (69ft) Nacira 69, entering the race for the first time. The crew, led by skipper Federico Dosso, has extensive experience from various offshore races and is eager to tackle the challenges the Rolex Middle Sea Race presents.
Adding to the diversity of competitors, the Swan 65 named Eve, owned by Australians Steve Capell and Fraser Welch, is on a round-the-world journey that began in 2022. The crew is passionate about the adventure of offshore racing, inspired by the idyllic photos of the race start and eager to create lasting memories.
Another Swan 65, the Six Jaguar, will compete for the first time with a crew primarily from Spain. This team, ranging in age from 23 to 68, is transitioning from inshore regattas to the world of offshore racing, seeking new challenges and experiences.
Despite being smaller than its competitors, the 12.5-meter (41ft) Quo from Austria will be led by the experienced Gerald Boess, who is embarking on his tenth Rolex Middle Sea Race. Boess has participated in numerous offshore events and appreciates the race’s unique challenges and stunning landscapes.
The Royal Malta Yacht Club is also emphasizing its commitment to environmental sustainability by launching the Sustainability Compass. This initiative aims to promote eco-friendly practices among sailors and safeguard the beauty of the Mediterranean for future generations.
Ava Thompson, a skilled sailor and marine journalist from Auckland, has developed a deep connection to the ocean that guides her work. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Auckland, Ava is known for her engaging and detailed storytelling. Her writing brings to life the thrill of sailing and the unique maritime culture of New Zealand, earning her recognition in the sailing community. Outside of her journalism, Ava enjoys exploring the rugged coastlines of New Zealand and competing in local regattas, always in search of her next seafaring adventure.