Royal Malta Yacht Club Crews Shine in Challenging 47th Rolex Middle Sea Race

The Royal Malta Yacht Club celebrated another memorable participation in the 47th Rolex Middle Sea Race, with ten yachts representing the Club among 107 competitors tackling the demanding 606-nautical-mile course around Sicily.

Artie III, skippered by Lee Satariano alongside Christian Ripard, claimed class honours and became the first Maltese yacht to finish. Satariano completed his 17th edition, while Ripard marked a remarkable 36th participation.

Meanwhile, the Podesta siblings, Aaron, Christoph and Maya, aboard Elusive 2, secured the prestigious Arthur Podesta Trophy after an intense battle with Jonathan Gambin’s Ton Ton Laferla.

Although Ton Ton crossed the finish line first, Elusive 2 emerged victorious by six minutes on corrected time.

The race also highlighted emerging Maltese talent, with 15-year-old Lily Ellul and 16-year-old Nathaniel Raute impressing aboard Kixx Me.

Other crews faced challenging conditions, with Vivace, JYS Jan and Amuni forced to retire following injuries or equipment damage.

Despite the setbacks, participants praised the determination, teamwork and resilience demonstrated throughout the competition.

The Club's crews now look towards the 2027 edition, carrying valuable experience from another demanding offshore challenge.

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