Over 100 international yachts, powerful weather system & more: 40th Rolex Middle Sea Race was massive
This year, the race was won by a family.
Test of skill at sea
The October race date was originally chosen because of the potential for challenging conditions in this area of the Mediterranean at this time of year. The powerful weather system will test the abilities of all competitors. Robert Scheidt, a five-time Olympic medallist, took part in 2009: “We had really strong winds on one night; the heaviest sea I have ever faced in my career. It was really tough. Many boats had to retire because the second half was so rough. We were exhausted, but it felt great to finish.”
The challenging course
The complexity of the four-sided course, part of which tracks the eastern and northern coasts of Sicily before returning the fleet to Malta via the islands of Pantelleria and Lampedusa, means crews can also encounter benign conditions posing other difficulties. Another feature of the racecourse is its natural beauty. Two active volcanoes and scores of rugged islands combine with frequent contact with wildlife to create a special experience. The start resembles a film set, with the Grand Harbour echoing to cannon fire from Valletta’s Saluting Battery as the fleet is sent on its way.
The winning team
This year, the race was won by a family. For the Podesta siblings – Aaron, Christoph, and Maya – racing Elusive 2 and, their mother Christine ashore – it was a massive moment. The siblings have raced together since 2002, except 2014, the year of Aaron’s marriage. When the siblings first started racing as a trio, it was with their father who had taken part in every race since 1968 until his untimely death in 2015. The Podesta children continue the family legacy and do their father proud.
Wednesday ended on a sad note for the Indian Cricket team and all its fans. The Kohli-led squad, which clashed with New Zealand in the semi-final of 2019 World Cup, lost to the Kiwis by 18 runs. After enjoying a winning streak in the ongoing World Cup, the Men in Blue succumbed to the attack from Black Caps and lost their chance to bring the trophy home.
Dejected by the defeat, some fans seemed to shed tears for their beloved team. However, it wasn't just the fans that sobbed at the loss, the Men in Blue also lived those moments of disappointment. Former captain Dhoni seemed teary-eyed as he exit the field on being run out. Kohli, too, was captured while offering consolation to his teammates.
Here's a round-up of all such moments from the Old Trafford stadium.
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