Cape to St Helena Yacht Race 2024 sets sail

Cape to St Helena Yacht Race 2024 set sail © Matthew Du Toit

The much-anticipated Cape to St Helena Yacht Race 2024 is officially under way! With eight diverse entries taking to the water, the race promises to be an unforgettable journey across 1,600 nautical miles of open ocean, blending adventure, competition, and camaraderie.

Among the fleet is TinTin, skippered by Diana Hutton-Squire, the defending champion from the 2022 race. TinTin is back to challenge for another victory, this time adopting an inshore course as the fleet heads into the South Atlantic. Meanwhile, One Eighty Magnus has opted for the offshore route, showcasing contrasting strategies early in the race.

After a slow start in light winds off Table Bay, the fleet has picked up pace. Nearly 9 hours into their journey, the boats were passing the latitude of North Head. At the forefront is Atalanta, leading both on overall standings and handicap with an impressive average speed of 9.1 knots.

Despite light conditions at the start, spirits across the fleet are high.

TinTin - Skippered by Di Hutton-Squire, TinTin is the defending champion from the 2022 race. The team is experienced and prepared to defend their title.

Umoya - Led by Pete Martin, Umoya is among the challengers aiming to outmaneuver Tintin and claim the title.

Atalanta - Co-skippered by Heye Daun and Gerry Hegie (a previous Cape2Rio Race winner) this team brings a wealth of combined expertise and determination to the race. With the previous owner, this boat won the infamous Cape2Rio Race sailing singlehanded.

Flica - A J99 yacht skippered by Rijk Kuttel, Flica is participating in its first ocean race. The crew includes sailors Chris Garratt and Theo Theunissen, the latter taking on wet duties as the youngest onboard.

Magnus - Skippered by Evert Groenewald, Magnus will test its capabilities against other seasoned competitors, in its first offshore race, however crewed by past race competitors.

Fryd - Jarl Spandow leads Fryd, Norwegian for 'delight', aiming for a strong performance in the demanding South Atlantic conditions, having extensive round-the-world cruising experience.

Magic Dragon - this family yacht, under the leadership of Rod Halling, and with three kids onboard, fewer gybes and plenty of tea are priorities, but the kids are confident they'll win—even if Mom and Dad just hope to make the festivities on the island!

Mwera - This double-handed team will no doubt add their pound of pizazz to the partaking racing fleet.

The race continues a proud tradition dating back 26 years and historically culminates in a prize-giving ceremony at Plantation House, St. Helena.

Every boat has its story to tell, and every mile sailed brings them closer to the iconic island of St Helena.

Visit the Cape to St Helena 2024 Facebook page and website for more information.