Old hands and fresh faces

Bullitt, Kurt Arrigo/Rolex

The Mediterranean is again set to host one of the world's most exciting and challenging offshore yacht races: the 2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race. With its iconic 606-nautical-mile course that takes sailors around Sicily, through the Strait of Messina, past the volcanic Aeolian and Egadi Islands, Pantelleria, and Lampedusa, and then back to Malta, this race continues to be the pinnacle of offshore racing.

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In 2024, the race promises an exciting edition featuring a dynamic mix of seasoned competitors and eager newcomers. The unique geography of the course, combined with unpredictable weather, ensures no two editions are ever the same.

A growing global fleet

This year's race attracts entries from worldwide, cementing its position as a premier event in the international sailing calendar. Entries officially close on September 20, 2024, but the fleet is already becoming formidable. The race's breathtaking scenery, challenging tactical obstacles, and test of willpower draw competitors from seasoned veterans to ardent adventurers.

Seng Huang Lee's Maxi, "Scallywag," a 100-foot Dovell-designed yacht steered by seasoned world traveller David Witt, is among the strongest competitors. "Scallywag" brings a level of power and experience that will make it a formidable contender at the head of the fleet. Meanwhile, Andrea Recordati, last year's winner, returns with his 93-foot Maxi "Bullitt", setting the stage for another battle at the front of the monohull fleet. "Bullitt" proved a formidable competitor in 2023, leading at several key stages and eventually winning under IRC Time Correction.

Seng Huang Lee's Maxi, "Scallywag," a 100-foot Dovell-designed yacht steered by seasoned world traveller David Witt

The Maxi fleet has further expanded with the entry of Volvo 70 "Dinzer Doo", formerly "Ericsson I", from the 2005/06 ocean race. "Dinzer Doo," now owned by Daniel Thomas and his daughter Mika from the United States, enters the race with a mix of family, friends, and seasoned professionals. Although the crew is new to the Rolex Middle Sea Race, the boat's history speaks volumes, having finished a close second in the 2020 edition of the race.

Nacira 69

Also joining the fleet is the Nacira 69, "12", entered by Diego Paternò Castello. Although this will be "12's" first participation in the Rolex Middle Sea Race, the crew, under the direction of skipper Federico Dosso, has a wealth of offshore experience, including involvement in the ARC Racing Division and the Giraglia. Their enthusiasm for the race, particularly its blend of light and challenging conditions, reflects the lure of the event for offshore sailors.

Swan 65 'Eve'

Two notable Swan 65 yachts will also participate in the 2024 edition. The Rolex Middle Sea Race will be one of Australians Steve Capell and Fraser Welch's significant racing stops on their round-the-world journey with "Eve". Having competed in four Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Races and one Rolex Fastnet Race, the crew of "Eve" is looking forward to experiencing the camaraderie and tactical challenges of the Mediterranean race.

George Ball's boat, "Six Jaguar", will compete in its first RMSR. Carlo Borlenghi/Rolex

On the other hand, George Ball's boat, "Six Jaguar", will compete in its first Rolex Middle Sea Race. With a crew predominantly from Spain, "Six Jaguar" represents a new chapter in offshore racing for a team that has previously focused on inshore regattas.

Veteran competitor: "Quo" from Austria

Smaller, yet not to be underestimated, is the 41-foot "Quo", skippered by Gerald Boess from Austria. A veteran of multiple Rolex Middle Sea Races, Boess is about to embark on his 10th edition of the race. With past experiences in races such as the Rolex Fastnet, Sydney Hobart, and RORC Caribbean 600, Boess and his crew are primed for another memorable race. Despite the boat's smaller size, "Quo" has consistently performed well, winning the double-handed class in 2020.

Local contenders

From the local fleet, "Elusive II" remains one of Malta's most famous entries. With three consecutive overall wins from 2019 to 2021, the Podesta family proudly represents the Maltese sailing community. Their knowledge of local waters and a highly experienced crew position "Elusive II" as one of the top contenders.

Elusive II, Kurt Arrigo/Rolex

 Jarhead women's team: Highlighting inclusivity in sailing

One of the standout entries this year is the Jarhead Women's Team, a crew composed of Maltese and international sailors. Their participation reflects the growing efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in offshore sailing. Under the leadership of a committed crew, the team pushes boundaries and subverts accepted sailing competition norms. Their journey from novice sailors to competing in one of the world's toughest offshore races is a testament to the evolving landscape of the sport, where women are taking on more prominent roles.

Jarhead Women's Team

Their participation in the Rolex Middle Sea Race showcases their determination and highlights the race's commitment to encouraging diverse crews to compete in this demanding sport. The Jarhead Women's Team will draw attention and inspire future generations of female sailors.

The 2024 Rolex Middle Sea Race promises another thrilling edition with a mix of seasoned veterans, cutting-edge technology, and passionate newcomers. Whether it's the battle for line honours at the head of the fleet or the tactical challenges that smaller boats will face, this year's race continues the tradition of adventure and competition that defines offshore sailing.

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is more than just a race—it tests skill, determination, and the human spirit. As the 45th edition approaches, the Mediterranean is ready to once again showcase some of the finest sailing talent from around the world.

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