ASTNET RACE ROLEX F Rock – an elite box ticked! For many entrants, the race is a once in a lifetime opportunity, while the lure of the 695nm course will see others returning time and time again. The 50th edition will start at lunchtime on Saturday 22nd (keep up to date with all the latest information via the website and social media) and the best vantage points will be along Cowes Green and Egypt Esplanade. As the fleet funnels west out of the Solent there will be lots of chances to see the yachts from Yarmouth as well. From the mainland you can view the yachts on their outbound leg; the best places to watch are from Hurst Castle, Anvil Point, St Alban’s Head and Portland Bill. The entire start sequence will be streamed live on the race website, RORC YouTube and Facebook. Yachts will also carry trackers, so family, friends and race fans can follow the progress of the race via the race website or by downloading the YB Races App. Around 3,000 crew members will be competing in the ‘Everest of sailing’ - for most the race is a personal challenge and a ‘bucket list’ race, but for others there are records to break: The Monohull race record of 2 days 8 hrs 33 mins and 55 secs was established in the 2021 race for the new course to Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, and for the Multihulls, the French Maxi Edmond de Rothschild, set the record to beat this year of: 1 day 9 hours 14 minutes and 54 seconds, establishing a benchmark time for the new course. The main trophy for overall winner of the Rolex Fastnet Race is called the Fastnet Challenge Cup and monohull yachts racing under IRC are eligible to win. There are an additional 30 trophies presented at the prizegiving, many to class winners and special awards Winning the special 50th Rolex Fastnet Race would be a major achievement and several individuals and teams are putting in extra effort, with new boats being constructed. For all the news, go to: rolexfastnetrace.com and follow RORC social media channels for the latest information and updates. #RolexFastnetRace Carlo Borlenghi/ROLEX 19 solenthandbook.com