Each year, the Rolex Middle Sea Race attracts a wonderfully diverse fleet — from classic yachts to cutting-edge racing machines, from seasoned professionals to ambitious amateurs. This diversity, in design, crew composition, and motivation, is what makes the race so captivating. For many, the real victory lies not in winning, but in taking part, completing the course, and celebrating the shared passion for offshore sailing.
Short-Handed Success
The final IRC class podium of the 2025 Rolex Middle Sea Race was decided on the seventh day of racing. Guido Baroni’s Italian Sun Fast 3600 Lunatika, co-skippered by Alessandro Miglietti, crossed the finish line at 15:40 CEST on Thursday, but had to wait until Friday for confirmation of their class victory. Their closest rival, Mowgli of Portsmouth, needed to finish by 10:44 A.M. to overturn the lead. The British entry crossed the line just after 11:00 — falling a mere 22 minutes short on corrected time.
Baroni and Miglietti, both from Rome, had spent the season sailing from Genoa to Malta, competing in various regattas along the way. After retiring from the 2024 race, the 46th edition held special meaning for the pair, who returned with renewed determination and a point to prove.
“We love the Rolex Middle Sea Race because it’s one of the most beautiful and demanding courses in the Mediterranean,” said Baroni. “Last year, we had to retire after damaging our mainsail, and that stayed with us all year. We came back to finish what we started — and to win now feels extraordinary.”
“This victory is for everyone who loves double-handed sailing, especially in Italy,” added Miglietti. “The Rolex Middle Sea Race is more than a competition — it’s an adventure that tests your seamanship, friendship, and spirit.”
Classic Lines and Enduring Spirit
Although they narrowly missed the class win, British brothers Patrick and Vincent Harris brought elegance and endurance to the race aboard Mowgli of Portsmouth, a 60-year-old classic sloop designed by Primrose & Illingworth. Completing the 606-nautical-mile course in just under six days, the brothers were greeted with an enthusiastic welcome at the Royal Malta Yacht Club. Having hand-steered throughout the entire race, their resilience paid tribute to Mowgli’s heritage.
“We wanted to bring Mowgli back to celebrate her 60th birthday,” said Patrick Harris. “We raced double-handed here in 2004 and always dreamed of returning. This was never about winning — it was about finishing together and proving she still has what it takes.”
Meanwhile, Pier Paolo Canè completed his third Rolex Middle Sea Race aboard Valentina, a 1986 design by Carlo Sciarelli. Built with mahogany planking, a teak deck, and graceful traditional lines, Valentina continues to surprise. After finishing 18th under IRC in 2022, she improved this year to 11th overall and 2nd in IRC 6.
“Valentina is not built for maximum speed, but for hydrodynamic efficiency,” explained Canè. “For us Corinthians, this race is about the experience — the transitions from strong to calm winds, the islands as marks, and the conversations that fill the quiet moments. Every edition leaves us with beautiful memories.”
The Future: Youth at the Helm
Youth participation remains a hallmark of the Rolex Middle Sea Race. This year’s fleet included 27 sailors under the age of 21, including three aged 15. Two 16-year-olds, competing with the Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation on JYS Jan, were racing their second edition.
“Maybe it wasn’t the result we wanted, but it was a great race and an amazing experience,” said Pippa Bartolo Parnis, aged 16. “Half my crew was under 16, and I’m really proud of what we achieved. I started sailing by accident — now it’s my passion.”
For Pippa and her young teammates, the beauty of the course left a lasting impression:
“This year, we sailed past Stromboli, Pantelleria, and Lampedusa during the day — it was stunning. You can’t look at your phone when the view is that good!”
The young sailor also reflected on the constant learning process:
“Every section of the race challenges you. The toughest part was peeling the spinnaker — I’d always talk myself through it first, and my crew helped every time. By the end, we nailed every manoeuvre.”
A Race for Everyone
From double-handed adventurers to young sailors and lovers of classic yachts, the Rolex Middle Sea Race truly caters to all. Its mix of challenge, beauty, and camaraderie continues to inspire generations of sailors.
Tomorrow, Saturday 25 October, the achievements of all participants will be celebrated at the official prize-giving ceremony, marking the close of another unforgettable chapter in this iconic Mediterranean race.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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