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2008 Beneteau Cup... Another success story!

The 7^th edition of the Beneteau Cup (Malta) came to a close on the 8^th of September, with the prize-giving ceremony and bbq at the Grand Hotel Excelsior waterfront, amidst many happy, tired and sunburnt faces!

The 4-day event to a fleet of no less than 26 Beneteau sailing yachts around several bays and local anchorages, providing just the right mix of sailing and social activities. The event was held earlier than usual this year, and the warmer weather lent itself to a more relaxed and laid-back weekend.   With many of the families still enjoying the last of their summer holidays, this was a great chance to socialise, sail and simply have a good time.

Racing started on Friday afternoon, with a start off the Grand Hotel Excelsior breakwater. The fleet sailed up the north east coast of Malta, to the finish line in Mellieha Bay. The fickle winds made for a testing race, but when the sailing was over, everyone cooled off with a swim before heading ashore for a beach party at the Adira Sailing Centre, which for some of the more lively crews, lasted well into the early hours of the morning.

Saturday morning saw the younger sailors take to the water on sailing dinghies, whilst the rest of the fleet woke up and took it easy. Racing was delayed slightly due to the unsettled winds, but by early afternoon, the course was laid and the fleet set sail towards the north Comino channel. The feeble breeze proved to be very challenging, but as the boats approached Comino, the breeze steadied out and all the boats finished in time to enjoy an evening swim in Paradise Bay.   Sunday morning brought light winds once again, but after a short wait, the westerly settled and the fleet set off on their third race. After rounding a windward mark laid offshore, the boats proceeded to round Fessej rock and Comino, and headed towards St Paul’s Bay. The fleet remained in close proximity, and proved to be quite the spectacle, with lots of spinnakers colouring the scenery.

The final night of the event was hosted at Beachaven, before an early start to Monday’s race back down to the Grand Hotel Excelsior. This time, the fleet remained even more closely packed than ever, with many boats finishing just seconds apart from each other! Participants then berthed in the hotel marina, and began recounting their stories and adventures over the last few days as they savoured their bbq lunch and prize-giving ceremony.

The organisers, Mediterranean Yacht Sales, wishes to thank the event Partners, and event Sponsors, for their continuing support. Their heartfelt thanks also go out to all the participants, who needless to say, provide the heart and soul of the Beneteau Cup.