The Jarhead Young Sailors Foundation has announced its crews for the forthcoming 46th Rolex Middle Sea Race, which starts on Saturday 18th October.
Organised by the Royal Malta Yacht Club, this iconic 606-nautical-mile race is one of the world’s most demanding offshore challenges, starting and finishing in Malta. Crews are tested by the ever-changing Mediterranean conditions — and the Foundation’s sailors, racing aboard the J/109 boats Jarhead and JYS Jan, are fully prepared to face them.
Following the unveiling of JYS Jan’s new branding — just weeks after Jarhead’s own rebrand — the Foundation introduced the offshore race crews and launched their new kits. The rebranding was supported by MMH Ltd, while Camilleri Marine supplied the new technical kit. The Melita Foundation also supported the launch of a new spinnaker for JYS Jan.
For this year’s race, the Foundation’s two boats will have a different setup. While last year crews were divided by gender, this time the teams are mixed, creating a blend of youth and experience. Jarhead will feature a more seasoned crew, all of whom have participated in at least one Rolex Middle Sea Race, while JYS Jan will take on a number of younger sailors with less experience — providing them with the opportunity to learn and grow through one of the world’s premier offshore events.
“Offshore racing has become a big part of my life,” commented Gary Mercieca, who will co-skipper Jarhead alongside Foundation benefactor and founder Gregory Nasmyth. “Our goals are always to get home safe, to learn, and to do well in the race — in that order. The Foundation takes part in this race to teach offshore sailing and give young people the skills they need to become complete sailors.”
Despite some of its crews having less experience than others, the Foundation has secured notable results in previous editions of the race, most memorably winning the Italian Ambassador’s Trophy for Sportsmanship last year. The award was presented to Jarhead, skippered by Gary Mercieca, and JYS Jan, skippered by Claudio Bugeja, in recognition of their teamwork, perseverance, and mutual support throughout the race. The youngest crew members at the time were Pippa Bartolo Parnis (15) on Jarhead and Luca Schembri Meli (14) on JYS Jan – both sailors will be returning to the race this year.
JYS Jan skipper Claudio Bugeja added, “The Rolex Middle Sea Race is the ultimate test for our young sailors. Every crew member, no matter how young, is aware that this is no joyride but a real challenge. What matters most is that they gain a valuable learning experience and continue developing into capable, confident sailors.”
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