Maltadaily.mt

The Royal Malta Yacht Club To Host Start Of 66th Edition Of Malta–Syracuse Race

The Royal Malta Yacht Club To Host Start Of 66th Edition Of Malta–Syracuse Race
Local

The Malta–Syracuse Race, one of the oldest offshore races in the Mediterranean, is scheduled to start on Saturday, 12 July.

Organized jointly by the Royal Malta Yacht Club and the Lega Navale Italiana, the race alternates its starting direction each year. This year, the fleet will depart from Malta and finish in Syracuse, with registrations coming in steadily from both countries. The event continues to reflect the partnership and friendly rivalry that have defined the race since its inception.

The Royal Malta Yacht Club has enjoyed a strong record in this race, achieving numerous victories since the inaugural edition in 1952, won by John Illingworth himself.

In the 1950s, Saluki, owned by Maj. A. Borda, won in 1955, establishing an early foundation of success. The 1960s and 1970s were particularly productive for Maltese competitors. Sylla, owned by P.W. Ripard, won twice (1965 and 1966), while John Ripard achieved victory with Tai-Lux in 1968, followed by Tikka, which won in consecutive years (1969 and 1970). The early 1970s saw Anna II, owned by Vincenzo Valentino, win in 1972, while Peon, owned by R. Insley and B.F. Maccabe, claimed victory in 1971.

The 1980s continued this tradition of success. Lilli, owned by P.R. Ripard, emerged victorious in 1982, while another Lilli, owned by Ray De Miccoli, won in 1984. Vega, owned by Marco Borg, added another victory in 1986. The early 2000s maintained this momentum, with David Franks leading Strait Dealer to victory in both 2003 and 2006.

Contemporary crews have continued this record with distinction. Juno, owned by Sonke Stein, secured two victories (2010 and 2014). Otra Vez, owned by Aaron Gatt Floridia, won in 2017, while Elusive II, owned by Maya, Aaron, and Christoph Podesta, claimed victory in 2019. Artie III, owned by Lee Satariano, won in 2020, Calypso, owned by Sebastian Ripard, won in 2023, and most recently Jubatus, owned by Sean Borg, took the title in 2024.

Once again, the race will award points toward the Offshore Challenge Trophy.

Registration is now open online through the Royal Malta Yacht Club website.

#MaltaDaily