The Royal Malta Yacht Club is looking forward to the 2010 edition of its flagship event with huge enthusiasm. The success of 2009 event after the upheaval of the yacht club premises move and the change in start line confirmed that the club has come of age. That we put on a first class event in testing circumstances proved the strength and commitment of our members, volunteers and flag officers.
The new clubhouse in Ta’Xbiex was soon regarded as an old friend even though we had only opened the doors in the week before the event. The space and facilities will be greater this year, with more of the event being run and organized within the immediate environs.
The start in Grand Harbour could not have been more spectacular. We were blessed with good weather and wind that powered the fleet out from the historic surroundings. The bird’s eye view afforded by the accessible bastions attracted many more spectators than we have seen in recent years. We are quite sure the crowds will be bigger this year.
Some things have not changed. The warmth of welcome that participants have come to expect will be present in abundance. The testing nature of the course will challenge all levels from the double-handers to the fully pro-crewed. Whether we see another assault on the course record remains to be seen. What we do know is that come October we will be fully engaged in greeting and supporting a host of international crews, some of who are already firm friends and others who will become so during the course of the event.
With the commitment of all the participants, the continued presence of our partner, Rolex, together with the essential support of the Malta Tourism Authority and Malta Maritime Authority, I am certain that the 2010 Rolex Middle Sea Race will be more than just a simple note in the growing history of this great race.
On behalf of the Royal Malta Yacht Club I look forward to welcoming you all to our race, our clubhouse and above all, our home, Malta.
Fair winds,
Georges Bonello DuPuis
Commodore Royal Malta Yacht Club