Sutton Harbour Marina
News
Fastnet comes to Sutton Harbour....
Following the success of The Artemis Transat last year, Sutton Harbour’s
reputation as a venue for world class sailing events has been further
strengthened with the announcement that it will host the finish of the 2009
Rolex Fastnet Race in August, as part of the Plymouth Summer Festival.
Organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, The 2009 race will start on
Sunday 9th August just off Cowes on the Isle of Wight. More than 300
vessels will compete the gruelling 608 nautical-mile offshore race west down
the Solent, out past the Needles, past the major south coast headlands to
round the famous Fastnet rock before returning via the Isles of Scilly to the
finishing line at Plymouth Breakwater.
After completing the race the first competitors are due to arrive at Sutton
Harbour Marina from Tuesday 11th onwards, when the public will be able to
marvel at the spectacle of the race village, packed with racing yachts from
across the world.
Mark Brimacombe, Sutton Harbour Marina Manager said: “We’re delighted
that The Royal Ocean Racing Club has selected Sutton Harbour Marina to
host the finish of the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race and we’re looking forward to
offering competitors a very warm welcome with our first class facilities and
excellent access to local restaurants, bars and shops to help them relax and
unwind after the event.
“Events like the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race will no doubt play and important
role in attracting visitors to Plymouth and provide a valuable boost to local
businesses during these tough economic times.”
Whilst the first Fastnet race in 1925 involved just seven yachts, the race is
now so popular that the Royal Ocean Racing Club has taken the
unprecedented step this year of closing the entry list some three months
ahead of the date set in the Notice of Race.
The Rolex Fastnet Race attracts every type of sailor and boat from across the
globe, from family owned and crewed cruisers to seasoned sailing champions
competitors will face a true test of physical and mental endurance.
For more information on the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race visit
www.fastnet.rorc.org