ELUSIVE 2 SECURES HISTORIC THIRD WIN AT ZHIK DOUBLE HANDED FIGURE OF 8 RACE

The Royal Malta Yacht Club’s 2025 Zhik Double Handed Figure of 8 Race once again delivered a thrilling spectacle, cementing its reputation as one of Malta’s most demanding sailing challenges. Skippered by brothers Aaron and Christoph Podesta, Elusive 2 claimed a remarkable third consecutive victory, showcasing tactical brilliance and sheer endurance.

The race course tested competitors across Malta’s most exposed waters, starting between Fort St Elmo and Tigné Point before sweeping north to Aħrax, through the Comino Channels, around Gozo, and down the rugged west coast. Conditions shifted dramatically, with light winds early on building to 20 knots and two-metre waves, adding intensity to the contest.

Early drama unfolded as Vivace and Calypso battled neck-and-neck off the start line, while Ton Ton Laferla and Lartista pressed hard. A decisive inshore move near Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq gave Elusive 2 the edge, and despite relentless pressure from rivals, the Podesta brothers held firm to finish first. Calypso claimed second, edging past Vivace in a late surge.

Commodore Mark Napier praised the competitors and thanked RLR Yachting for supporting the event. The RMYC season concludes with the Medcomms Round Malta Race on December 13.

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