2013 Rolex Middle Sea Race - Prizegiving

The Mediterranean Conference Center in Valletta was the prestigious venue of the official prize giving ceremony for the 34th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race. Hundreds of competitors, family and friends packed the Republic Hall. Distinguished guests included Ministers, Parliamentary Secretaries and Ambassadors; Lionel Schurch of Rolex SA Switzerland presented the Line Honours Winner and the Overall Winner with a Rolex timepiece.

Godwin Zammit, Commodore of the Royal Malta Yacht Club, opened the proceedings and there was rapturous applause as each prize winner took to the stage. The ceremony concluded with an inspirational film taken during the 2013 Rolex Middle Sea Race, which raised a tremendous ovation from the guests. After the ceremony a superb buffet was served in the 16th century La Vallette Hall.

The 34th edition of the Rolex Middle Sea Race was the largest entry for the race since 1968 with yachts from 18 different countries taking part. Godwin explained why this year's race has been so popular: "The word spreads in the sailing world throughout yacht clubs in the Mediterranean and beyond and by word of mouth from sailor to sailor. We have seen a big increase in numbers, especially from medium and smaller yachts. We have 30 Italian yachts coming to Malta for the race and not just from the Mediterranean, we also have many Italian yachts coming from the Adriatic. It is very encouraging to see so many Maltese entries, local teams have been preparing for this event all year. We are delighted to see that there was only one retirement, the light weather meant that there was very little damage to the yachts but the wind was sufficient for all of the yachts to make good speed for the race.

This has been a very satisfying race for the Royal Malta Yacht Club because we have seen it grow and not just in terms of entries. There has been a big increase in people following the race from all over the world. Tomorrow's Prize Giving is the culmination of a two week event and the Mediterranean Conference Center is one of the finest buildings in Valletta, a fitting venue for the Prize Giving. I would like to say a big thank you to the team of helpers who come back every year, they get carried away with the enthusiasm and they give so much time willingly. I hope they enjoy being part of it all, we definitely owe them a lot."

To track the fleet and follow blogs from the boats, including photos and reports, go to www.rolexmiddlesearace.com