Round the island race: only 277 crossed the line. Magic dragon III retired, but what an experience!

Cowes (UK), 30 June – On one of the hottest days in the history of the UK, the Round the Island Race offered challenging sailing conditions with almost no wind over most of the course. With a fleet of 1210 entries, only 277 managed to complete the race. The first finisher – the multihull Actual Leader – crossed the finish line after over 7 hours. Paul Jones’ Magic Dragon III, hosting the Barcolana team and supported by the Chamber of Comerce Venezia Giulia and Consorzio Collio, raced passed the iconic Needles, sailed until late afternoon despite the light winds and cross currents but retired at the Bembridge Ledge because it would have never crossed the line by the race deadline of 22.30 due to the cross currents and lack of wind.

Chairman Mitja Gialuz commented on the race: “We had to give in to the weather conditions in the Solent – no wind and cross currents. Over 900 boats retired this year, but the Round the Island Race is so unique that all sailors should try it. Sailing is extremely challenging here: shallows, rocks, sand spits, no access areas, tides, currents, strong and light winds are all features of this race. It was really great to be part of it with a local team, enjoying its true spirit which mirrors that of Barcolana. We have spent three lovely days learning about British seafaring traditions, promoting Collio wines that have been appreciated by British yachtsmen, building  friendly relations. This can lead to future bonds with Barcolana, Made in Italy products and the athletes and members of Società Velica di Barcola e Grignano. We have to find the resources so that our young sailors can take part in races like this one where they learn to enjoy the sport, the culture and social events”.

Aboard the Magic Dragon was also the Linea Blu TV crew who will report on Barcolana’s experience at the event. The Magic Dragon reached land in the evening, after towing a small trimaran with three young sailors on board. Mitja Gialuz commented : “Seafaring solidarity, team spirit, great navigation culture are the three key elements we take back home with us after this fantastic adventure. We would like to thank the Chamber of Commerce Venezia Giulia and Consorzio Collio for their support. We took some Collio wines to Cowes which were tasted by journalists and yachtsmen at the Island Sailing Club and were highly appreciated for their quality, showing how  popular  Collio is abroad”.

Today the Barcolana team took part in the prize-awarding ceremony before “sailing” towards Munich where TAL Group will present Barcolana51 on 2 July at 17.00 with TAL Chairman Alessio Lilli and presenting sponsor Generali, illycaffè, PromoTurismoFVG, North, Prosecco DOC and Musement.