Rolex Fastnet Race 50th edition of a legendary contest

 

The Rolex Fastnet Race is the world's largest race of its kind and since 2009, has consistently welcomed more than 300 entrants. This year a fleet of over 450 yachts, sailed by about 3,000 crew from some 30 countries, is expected - clear proof that the race is held in high regard by the international sailing community. RORC Commodore James Neville believes the event's history and standing resonate perfectly with competitive sailors from all backgrounds.

" The Rolex Fastnet Race is a rite of passage for any sailor. It is a relentless and often brutal challenge. The race demands a multitude of skills - navigational and tactical awareness, flawless preparation, exemplary teamwork and resilience in the face of the harshest conditions."

The 2023 Rolex Fastnet Race starts on Saturday, 22 July from Cowes, Isle of Wight, England. As is tradition, the starting signals will be delivered from the Royal Yacht Squadron. The Squadron, as it is universally known, has been supported by Rolex since the 1980s and, like the RORC, is regarded as one of the pre-eminent yacht clubs in the world.

Heading westwards from Cowes, the fleet passes noted landmarks in the English Channel, including The Needles at the western end of the Solent, Portland Bill, Start Point, The Lizard and Land's End, before embarking on the open water passage across the Celtic Sea to the symbolic turn at the Fastnet Rock off the southern coast of Ireland. This rounding marks the emblematic halfway juncture as the fleet embarks on the long return leg via the Scillies to the finish at Cherbourg. After a successful introduction in 2021, this will be the second time the race finishes in France.

Conditions across the course typically entail strong westerly winds, high seas and punishing waves, particularly in the open-water legs. Just to reach the finish, crews must be prepared to summon their deepest resources, while the diversity of competing yachts and sailors demonstrates the widespread appeal of the Rolex Fastnet Race and its reputation as a relentless, but rewarding challenge. Cutting-edge maxi multihulls and grand prix monohulls share the course with much smaller boats, often crewed by passionate Corinthians, for some of whom completing this race can be the pinnacle of their sailing achievement.