MANAGING 3 HIGH-PERFORMANCE YACHTS IN THE ROLEX FASTNET RACE 2023
World-renowned yacht management company Alex Thomson Racing entered three yachts in this year’s demanding Rolex Fastnet Race. The historic event, known for its unforgiving course, started at the Royal Yacht Squadron line off Cowes, Isle of Wight, on August 2nd. From the get-go, the demanding conditions and strong winds set a challenge for the sailors, with large numbers of yachts retiring into ports across the south-coast of the UK.
“This achievement reflects the dedication and passion of our entire team. Getting three complex yachts to the start line is a huge undertaking, and we are immensely proud of the collaborative spirit shown by all involved” said Richard Mason, Chief Operating Officer of the company.
The journey to the start line of an event like the Fastnet is no easy feat. Years of experience at the highest levels of offshore yacht racing have given the Alex Thomson Racing team the expertise to ensure a fairly smooth campaign from start to finish and expertly prepared yachts.
Despite facing formidable challenges and tight timelines, the three teams managed by the Gosport based operation made the start line of the 695-mile yacht race. This mammoth effort saw the collective input of more than fifty individuals across various departments within the company. From meticulous administration and technical expertise to media coordination and on-the-water training, Alex Thomson Racing has experience in every step of the process.
“Getting not one but three of our teams across the start line was a monumental achievement for us. It required a synchronized effort from every department. Our team members worked tirelessly to get us here, and their dedication is reason for our success” said CEO Emma Kettle.
“Seeing three of our teams at the start line of the Rolex Fastnet Race was a moment of immense pride. Our technical team worked to overcome a multitude of challenges to ensure that each yacht was in peak condition and ready to take on the tricky race.” Added Richard Mason.
TOSCA, the Gunboat 68 managed by the Alex Thomson Racing team for some time, finished the gruelling race and achieved an incredible 2nd place in the hard-fought MOCRA (multihull) class. While in the highly competitive IMOCA fleet, L’Occitane En Provence finished 6th, a fantastic first result in the boat for skippers Clarisse Crémer and Alan Roberts.
Despite their best efforts, IMOCA Be Water Positive (Canada Ocean Racing) faced an unfortunate setback thanks to a broken J3 halyard, limiting their sail choice in the harsh conditions. This damage forced their retirement from the race but did not keep them on the dock for long. In a show of remarkable sportsmanship, the team were back on the water the next day to continue their training.
On the retirement of Be Water Positive, Richard Mason said, “We stand beside our team through the highs and the lows. Sailing is a sport that tests us, but it also unites us. Together, we will learn from this experience and come back stronger.”
As the Rolex Fastnet Race concludes, Alex Thomson Racing takes this opportunity to extend their gratitude to every team member, sponsor, and supporter who played an integral role in making this achievement possible. With their unwavering dedication, the team continues to inspire the world of yacht racing and sets the standard for excellence in the industry.