Sailing World on Water July 28.23 Fastnet Winners, Clarisse Returns, LRPP Capsize, ETNZ Masts, more

Highlights of what happened globally in the sport of sailing in the last 7 days.

Winning the Rolex Fastnet Race is a dream for many passionate offshore sailors. For, Max Klink, the owner and skipper of the 15.85m (52ft), Swiss entry, Caro, the dream became reality in 2023. Demonstrating the necessary dedication and commitment to contemplate success at the 50th edition of the legendary 695 nautical mile race, the crew of Caro were deserved victors.

This is your weekly Sailing Highlights show, the World on Water, July 28, 2023.

The Rolex Fastnet Race is always an examination of determination and endurance. The 50th edition has been no exception. Throughout the largest fleet to ever participate, 430 yachts, crews have faced a variety of conditions from the extreme and arduous to the benign and frustrating. Weather plays a significant part in the outcome of any offshore yacht, and the 2023 fleet has been tested thoroughly. Strong winds at the beginning have given way to lighter breeze, and for many the race is far from over.

In a repeat of their previous success, the 84 foot Nigel Irens designed catamaran, Allegra, owned by Adrian Keller, and skillfully skippered by Rob Grimm, has once again triumphed at this year’s Rolex Fastnet Race.
Proving their unrivalled mettle, they finished with an elapsed time of 2 days, 8 hours, 44 minutes, and 18 seconds, securing a top place in the Mocra Class.
Their exceptional performance, maintaining the lead amidst strong competition, illustrates the determination and tenacity of the Allegra team. This win adds another feather in their cap, reinforcing Allegra’s position as a significant contender in the world of sailing.

After a two-year hiatus, a brand new boat, and with her husband competing in the same race, Clarisse Crémer is a prime example of how to balance family and professional life. Securing a 6th place for her team at this edition of the Rolex Fastnet Race, she continues to inspire.

The Emirates Team New Zealand team has been stepping AC75 masts since their first boat was launched on September 4th 2019, so over the years they become quite proficient at it.

Galiana WithSecure, the 1970 Swan 55 yawl, skippered by Tapio Lehtinen, was dismasted at 22:30 local time on Saturday 15 July. The main mast fell down, at the lowest spreaders, during heavy weather south east of Portland Bill.
Tapio’s sights are now set on repairing Galiana WithSecure, in order to be at the start line of the Ocean Globe Race, on 10 September 2023.

Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli showed blistering pace before a slow-motion capsize in Cagliari whilst Emirates Team New Zealand enjoyed a full-on testing session in a building, testing sea-state out in Barcelona.
The 37th America’s Cup will be Defended in Barcelona by four-time America’s Cup winner, the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron represented by their team, Emirates Team New Zealand.

With strong winds, the first race of this year’s 26th Rodos Cup started from Kos to Kalymnos.
The wind reached 25 knots, testing the boats and crews. The race was quite fast, allowing the crews to relax on the beautiful and hospitable island of Kalymnos and prepare for the next race.