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Rolex Swan Cup: More than Just a Regatta
15-21 September 2024
All sports have events that transcend the sport itself, creating a community of shared experiences among participants and spectators alike.
Yacht racing boasts its own prestigious events, and the Rolex Swan Cup has been successfully asserting its place in this elite category since 1980, with its 22nd edition set to take place from September 15-21 in Porto Cervo. Over 100 models from the renowned Nautor Swan range are already registered to compete.
This year’s regatta will not only showcase thrilling racing but will also celebrate the 40th anniversary of the partnership between Rolex, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS), and Nautor Swan. As part of the commemorative activities, a photographic exhibition will be held in Piazza Azzurra, highlighting the shared values that define this iconic regatta and has connected Rolex, YCCS, and Nautor Swan over the decades.
Nautor Group President Leonardo Ferragamo remarked, “Our partnership with Rolex and YCCS embodies shared values and constant innovation, establishing a landmark in sailing and sport. I am thrilled to welcome passionate sailors to this exciting new edition!”
A Gathering of Friends
Nestled in Sardinia, the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda has long been recognized as the spiritual home of the Swan fleet, effortlessly blending elegance, sophistication, and efficiency. The club’s picturesque location along Sardinia’s northern coastline enhances the experience, fostering camaraderie among Swan owners and sailors.
The 2024 edition will unite members of the Swan family from across the globe, featuring a range of models from the recently introduced ClubSwan 28 to the 27.7m maxi yacht Swan 90 Freya. Donald Macpherson, owner of Freya, encapsulated the essence of the event when he celebrated victory in the 2022 Maxi class, stating, “It was an incredible week; all the boats and competitors were fantastic. Success in sailing, the Rolex Swan Cup, and Porto Cervo—there is nothing better.”
Giulio Gatti, owner of Anya Race, a new ClubSwan 28, echoed this sentiment: “Participating in the Swan racing world has been a wonderful experience. The Rolex Swan Cup is truly a gem for the entire Swan community, which feels like a family. I eagerly await our time on the water in Sardinia!”
Out on the Racecourse
The Rolex Swan Cup is firmly committed to friendly and fair racing, and this year introduces a few innovative changes to enhance the experience. The fleet will be divided into two groups: Group 1 will host Rating classes split into three divisions—Maxi, Swan, and Sparkman & Stephens—each categorized further by size and competitiveness. This change aims to maximize enjoyment for all participants.
Group 2 will consist of the more racing-focused Swan One Design models, including the ClubSwan 50, ClubSwan 36, and ClubSwan 28, along with the creation of the Swan One Design Grand Prix class for other Swan OD models like the Swan 45 and ClubSwan 42.
An exciting addition this year is that racing will occur over five consecutive days from September 17 to 21, with no lay day, allowing for a convenient journey home for participants.
The Rating entries in Group 1 will embark on daily coastal races along the stunning Costa Smeralda, while the One-Design classes will participate in a mix of windward-leeward and coastal races. Ghada G. Barsoum, a new member of the ClubSwan 36 fleet, expressed her enthusiasm: “I’m in love with Lady Ghada. It’s an honor to represent Egypt and helm a fast, performing boat.”
And Back on Shore
The social aspect of the Rolex Swan Cup is just as integral as the racing, set against the sophisticated backdrop of YCCS. The heart of the festivities is Piazza Azzurra, where camaraderie flourishes as stories are shared over post-race refreshments.
The YCCS Clubhouse will host key events, including the Welcome Cocktail on Monday and the Owners’ Dinner on Thursday, culminating in the celebratory Final Prize Giving at the YCCS Regatta Village. The Rolex Dinner Party on Friday promises to be a highlight of the week in a venue yet to be announced.
Acknowledgments
ClubSwan Racing, organizer of the Swan One Design Nations League series—including the Rolex Swan Cup—extends its gratitude to main partners Rolex, Randstad, Porsche, Henri Lloyd, Ferragamo, and Banor.
Notably, the Randstad Sailing Team will race onboard Swan 82 Kallima during the 2024 Rolex Swan Cup. Angela Tenerelli, Marketing & Communication Director of Randstad Italia, shared, “Competing in the Rolex Swan Cup 2024 enables us to showcase values like leadership and teamwork.”
The Kallima will feature a prestigious crew, including sailing legends Paul Cayard, Tommaso Chieffi, and Federico Michetti, Head of Swan OD Sport Activities.
Regatta Schedule:
- Sunday, 15 Sept.: Inspection, Registration & Measurements
- Monday, 16 Sept.: Inspection, Registration & Measurements, Practice Race for OD Classes
- Tuesday, 17 Sept. to Saturday, 21 Sept.: Racing Days
The Nations League is supported by main partners Rolex, Randstad, Porsche Italia, and Banor, alongside technical sponsors Quantum Sails, North Sails, Doyle Sails, Garmin, Sailmon, B&G, Gottifredi Maffioli, AON, Ethimo, and Ferrari Trento.
For more information, visit the event page.
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Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.
