Strong Comeback for TonTon Laferla Insurance
Despite the initial plan, by the Royal Malta Yacht Club, to enjoy a four-day racing weekend from Friday to Monday, the International Yacht Paint Gozo Weekend faced an unexpected challenge as strong winds impacted the Maltese Islands on Friday and Saturday. However, Race Officer Martin Azzopardi adjusted the planned schedule, with racing going ahead on Sunday and Monday resulting in the fleet delivering two exciting passage races from Malta to Gozo and back.
A total of nine boats competed on Sunday, with eight returning to the water on Monday. Despite the disrupted schedule, participants were rewarded with favourable winds on both days, allowing for excellent racing conditions and tight competition.
The fleet saw a healthy balance between racers and cruisers, with standout performances across both categories.
The overall winner of the International Yacht Paint Gozo Weekend was Jonathan Gambin and his crew on Ton Ton Laferla, marking a strong return to racing after a year’s hiatus.
Commenting on the victory, Gambin said:
“After a year away from racing, Ton Ton Laferla returned to the local regatta scene with something to prove. With the help of our sponsors Laferla Insurance, our comeback was complete, securing a triumphant victory in our first race. Thanks to our crew and sponsors.”
David Anastasi’s Pippus was another strong performer, claiming a win and second-place finish overall, as well as clinching victory in the Cruiser’s Class with back-to-back wins.
Mario Debono’s Janissah and Steve Carter’s Stella R also secured one race win each, with Janissah placing second whilst Stella R finised in third place in the final standings.
In IRC2 Class, both the Jarhead Young Sailors’ Foundation’s JYS Jan skippered by Claudio Bugeja and Gintaras Chomentauskas’ Maltese Falcon 2 secured one win apiece. However, since two boats tied for first place, the Race Committee had to break the tie according to the Racing Rules of Sailing. As a result, Maltese Falcon 2 was declared winner of the Class.
“The International Yacht Paint Gozo Weekend once again proved that, even in the face of unpredictable weather, Malta’s sailing community is always ready to rise to the occasion – with determination, skill, and a shared love for the sea.” noted Adrian Gauci Borda, Rear Commodore (Yachting), at the RMYC.
A Prize Giving evening was held at the Royal Malta Yacht Club, where winners were presented with their awards by Andrew Magri Overend, CEO of MacMed Group – representatives of International Yacht Paint in Malta, who remarked that “As we conclude this event, we reflect on our partnership with the Royal Malta Yacht Club, reaffirming International Paint’s commitment to excellence in boat care and the enduring spirit of sailing. It’s about camaraderie, community and the shared love for the sea. We extend our congratulations to all participants and look forward to supporting future regattas that continue to provide thrilling opportunities for the sailing community.”
The Club thanked MacMed Group for once again supporting the Club’s sailing programme as well as the Race Management team led by Martin Azzopardi who was ably assisted by Adrian Gauci Borda, Michelle Caruana, Tania Bonnici, and Tania Steinbeck.
The next race in the Club’s programme of events consists of the Tommy Hilfiger Fully Crewed Figure of 8 Race on Saturday 12th April. Registration is open on www.rmyc.org/races.