2023 Rolex Fastnet Race: Caro etched into history
by Quinag 26 Jul 2023 18:33 BST
Swiss entry Caro, skippered by Max Klink wins the 50th Rolex Fastnet Race © Luca Butto
The Fastnet Challenge Cup is awarded to the overall winner of the Rolex Fastnet Race on time correction. Success is dependent upon possessing the skills and ability to race one's yacht at its full potential, whatever the weather or sea conditions.
In a 695nm race luck plays a part because the wind is not even across the course all the time. Remaining focused and committed throughout takes passion, belief and determination. The Swiss entry Caro joins an illustrious list of yachts that have won this near 100-year-old race. Max Klink's crew deserve their place in the history of this fabled contest, worthy winners at the 50th edition, setting themselves apart from the remainder of a highly competitive, record fleet.
The Rolex Fastnet Race is always an examination of determination and endurance. The 2023 race has been no exception. Throughout the largest fleet to ever participate, 430 yachts, crews have faced a variety of conditions from the extreme and arduous to the benign and frustrating. First held in 1925, the Rolex Fastnet Race is organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club. Rolex has partnered the event since 2001 and the biennial offshore race is one of the foundations of the Swiss Watchmaker's six-decade-long association with the sport of yachting.