Rolex Fastnet Race
The Fastnet Race is one of the world’s most famous offshore yacht races organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club of the United Kingdom.
Generally considered one of the classic offshore races, ‘Fastnet’ is a difficult contest testing both inshore and offshore skills, boat & crew preparation and speed potential. From its inception, the Fastnet Race has proven highly influential in the growth of offshore racing, and remains closely linked to advances in yacht design, sailing technique and safety equipment.
The Fastnet Race takes place every two years over a course of 695 nautical miles from Cowes, Fastnet Rock, Cherbourg-en-Cotentin. The race has a huge worldwide following and has seen continued growth over recent years, with the limit of 300 boats having to be increased to over 340 due to high demand.
The Fastnet is a challenging race; as it takes place in July or August, the race is often dominated by a Westerly airstream that is often strong to gale force in strength. For the Open 60, Volvo 60 and 70’s, this race is a perfect match between their strong offshore potential performance and the safety margin offered by the close proximity of land throughout much of this race. For new sailors and those with many years under their belt, the Fastnet offers a high degree of challenge and excitement to be involved in a major offshore event.
