Sailors face rough weather in island race

Mark Pawlak    sailingbreaks     Isle of Wight, Sailing, sailing holiday, sailing race, sailing races, Yachting

It is not just yacht charter holidays around exotic islands off the coasts of far-off countries that can tempt sailors out onto their vessels.

A race around the Isle of Wight has proved to be a strong enough attraction to draw in over 1,900 boats and 16,000 sailors.

One of the largest yacht races in the world, the J.P Morgan Round The Island Race took place on the 25th June.

The largest ever number of competitors faced rough weather conditions to take part in the sailing event, which is now in its 80th year.

TV presenter Denise Van Outen signalled the beginning of the race from the Crowes starting line, but because of the severe conditions – with up to force seven winds and waves around 20 feet – many boats were forced to retire early.

The winner of the epic race was Lionel Lemonchois, which crossed over the finishing line with a time of three hours, 49 minutes and 58 seconds.

About the author

Mark Pawlak wrote 194 articles on this blog.

Editor at Adventure Sports Holidays, Mark's love affair with travel and the challenges of adventure sports continues... "You could save all year for a two-week, all-inclusive, doss by the pool, booze and buffet binge. Or, with a little planning and some good equipment, get off your arse and plan an adventure!"

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