Lee Satariano claimed overall victory in 2011 and 2014 with his previous yacht.
This year is particularly special for Christian Ripard, as he celebrates his 35th Rolex Middle Sea Race participation, equalling the record of the late Arthur Podesta, who completed 35 editions before his passing in 2015. The Artie III crew remains relatively unchanged, with the welcome return of Zach Zammit, who sat out last year’s race.
They also carry the momentum of a strong third-place class finish at the Aegean 600 in July, an experience that provided invaluable lessons ahead of the challenge to come.
