Ton Ton Laferla won the International Yacht Paint Figure of 8 Race, held on Saturday by the Royal Malta Yacht Club, after a long and difficult day at sea. The race lasted 17 hours, with very light and changing winds making conditions tough for all crews, who showed strong determination throughout.
The race started in almost no wind from Marsamxett, with boats moving very slowly towards the Munxar mark. The wind kept changing all day, from calm to light, with only short periods of stronger breeze. Because of this, the Race Committee decided to shorten the course. The Gozo leg was removed, and the fleet instead rounded Comino before heading back to finish in Marsamxett.
At the start, Sean Borg’s Jubatus led the fleet, followed by Kixx Me and Geisha, with Vivace and Ton Ton Laferla close behind. As they sailed south, Kixx Me and Geisha moved ahead and built a gap. Later, Jubatus returned to the lead. By the time the boats reached Comino, Ton Ton Laferla had taken first place, followed closely by Jubatus, while Geisha finished third.
Ton Ton Laferla crossed the finish line first and also won overall after time correction. Some of its usual crew were away competing abroad, so younger sailors stepped in at short notice and helped secure the win. Vivace started in the middle of the fleet but made steady progress with well-timed sail changes. Good decisions near Paradise Bay helped them finish second overall and first in their class. Jubatus finished third overall.
In the Club Class, Xpalidocious was first to finish, but Thunder Child, sailed by father and son Matthew and Kyle Zarb Cousin, won the class after time correction.
Adrian Gauci Borda from the Royal Malta Yacht Club said the race tested the patience and determination of even experienced sailors, and congratulated all those who finished. Andrew Magri Overend of Mac Med Group praised the event and highlighted the skill and commitment needed in sailing, as well as their continued support.
A prize-giving event will be held on Friday, 17 April at the Royal Malta Yacht Club.
