2023 Rolex Fastnet Race - the examination continues
by Quinag 25 Jul 2023 11:37 PDT
25 July 2023
Sunrise iii, winner of the 49th Rolex Fastnet Race, reaches the rock in the 50th edition of the Rolex Fastnet Race © Kurt Arrigo / Rolex
With the line honours titles decided, attention has turned to the destination of the Fastnet Challenge Cup, awarded to the overall winner of the race under IRC time correction. But this is not the only reason yachts are racing.
Currently, some 250 yachts are still scattered along the 695nm course. Some may still have their eye on the main prize, while others will just be concentrating on finishing.
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. While the overall winner will be feted for their achievement, for all entrants completing the course this year will be an accomplishment of which to be proud.
First held in 1925, the Rolex Fastnet Race is organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club. Rolex has partnered the event since 2001 and the biennial offshore race is one of the foundations of the Swiss Watchmaker's six-decade-long association with the sport of yachting.