Ocean Racers

Best viewed in Large.

Following the last day's racing of Cowes Week yesterday the big boys came out today for the start of the Fastnet Race.

The Fastnet Race takes place every two years over a course of 608 nautical miles (1,126 km). The race starts off Cowes Royal Yacht Squadron. Leaving The Solent the race follows the southern coastline of England westward down the English Channel, before rounding Land's End. After crossing the Celtic Sea, the race rounds the Fastnet Rock off the southwest coast of Ireland. Returning via the Scilly Islands before finishing at Plymouth.

More than 300 yachts including some of the world's largest ocean racers were started at 10 minute intervals and with a stiff breeze developing they provided an exciting spectacle for the spectators lining the shore with crews battling for position from the drop of the flag.

The early starters including a 100ft. trimaran chose to start from the far side of the line towards Southampton but the monohulls later in the afternoon came close to the Island shoreline enabling us to see these huge ocean racers at close quarters.

I have posted some more pictures HERE