Record Entry for Rolex Middle Sea Race

Crew Party at the Royal Malta Yacht Club © Kurt Arrigo / Rolex

109 yachts from 18 different countries have entered the 2013 Rolex Middle Sea Race, which is set to eclipse the record entry of 82 yachts competing last year. The race is the most prestigious international sporting event in Malta and thousands of people will be watching the start from the magnificent limestone bastions, high above the Grand Harbour, which will be televised live on Maltese Television and a huge worldwide audience of race fans will visit the Rolex Middle Sea Race web site, as the drama unfolds.

In 2009, the Royal Malta Yacht Club moved to a new purpose built premises, located right on the water in Ta' Xbiex Marina. Extensive mooring facilities are available at the club and close by and with three extensive al fresco terraces, a lounge bar, restaurant and conference rooms, the Royal Malta Yacht Club is expecting a record attendance at the club, as well as out on the 630 mile race course.

The 2013 Rolex Middle Sea Race will be the largest ever gathering hosted by the Royal Malta Yacht Club since it was established in 1835. Probably the biggest attendance will be the Rolex Middle Sea Race Crew Party. 2000 members, competitors, as well as guests from overseas and the Maltese community are expected to attend.

"The club will be exceptionally busy before and after the race, with this in mind, the club staff and members have been preparing for the influx of visitors and we are all excited by the prospect of welcoming so many guests to the Royal Malta Yacht Club. We are absolutely delighted with the enormous international interest and we will offer everyone a warm welcome and all the assistance we can during their stay." Confirmed Godwin Zammit, Commodore of the Royal Malta Yacht Club.

"The design of the club really lends itself to a large party, as there are open areas on several levels allowing the crew party crowd to spread out giving a quieter area or a busy dance floor, whatever is the preference. Everyone at the club is really looking forward to the race, I think that it is proving so popular because we have seen more and more people wanting to coming back to do the Rolex Middle Sea Race again and again. The race is popular with a wide variety of people, professional sailors, passionate amateurs, both young and old. For overseas visitors, many of them are coming here from colder countries, so the weather in Malta is very attractive, as well. We are determined to make sure that all of the competitors receive a Maltese welcome that they will never forget."

Key Dates:

• 16 October - On the water action begins with the Rolex Middle Sea Coastal Race
• 17 October - Crew Party hosted by the Royal Malta Yacht Club
• 19 October - The start of the Rolex Middle Sea Race in Malta's spectacular Grand Harbour

For a full programme of events and more information visit www.rolexmiddlesearace.com