Fastnet Race 2005

The biennial Rolex Fastnet Race is one of the world's classic ocean races, the 608-mile course with its tricky tidal currents and changeable weather conditions provides skippers and crews with the ultimate offshore challenge – that of rounding the Fastnet Rock.

To say it requires versatility, strong team bonds and dedication is an understatement. However, the sense of achievment for the succesful yachtsman is second to none.

The race, organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC), starts from Cowes, Isle of Wight. The course then takes the fleet South West down the Solent, past the Needles and out into the English Channel. The headlands along the South Coast of England - Anvil Point, Portland Bill, Start Point, The Lizard, Lands End - must each be weathered on the way to open ocean and the leg North West to the Fastnet Rock with it's mythical lighthouse. The return leg to Plymouth, via Bishop Rock Lighthouse on the South side of the Scilly Isles, is just as demanding, as fatigue and competition take their toll. Finally, it’s into Plymouth Sound for a much needed beer and solid ground!

Like no other race the Rolex Fastnet Race attracts every type of sailor and boat from just about every sailing country in the world. Sailing schools, corporate institutions, family owned and crewed cruiser-racers, dedicated amateurs, club sailors along with the hardened champions from the Grand Prix circuits, are all attracted to compete in the best-known offshore race in the world. All come to enjoy the challenge of one of the trickiest and most demanding sporting events that an individual or a team can aspire.