Race One of SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta under way
Race One of the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta is now underway, with the fleet making its way towards the Russian port of Novorossiysk. Having prepared for possible delays at the start line due to lack of wind some five miles east of Varna, it increased to around 6 knots by the scheduled start time allowing the race to start on time, under very murky skies. All ships crossed the line under full sail, with a particularly good start by Kaliakra (Bulgaria) crossing the line just eight seconds after the starting signal.
There were no incidents or early starters and the Race Chairman, Robin Snouck Hurgonje, recorded every ship across the line himself.
Akela (Russia), a very competitive vessel, was the first across the line in the C/D Class, sailing very close to the No Go Zone area and starting vessel, with excellent helming from the captain. Meanwhile Bordum (Turkey) crossed first in the B class.
The first reporting schedule will be on Sunday morning, 4th May, when all ships radio their position to the race communications vessel. The subsequent race report will appear here shortly after, providing key positions. With four Russian Class A ships racing together for the first time, this is bound to be a very competitive race and the trainees will be working hard to be ahead of the pack.
You can follow the fleet on the Yellow Brick system by clicking on this link.
29 sail training vessels entered the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta, with 17 having arrived in Varna to take part, including one Ukranian and seven Russian ships. Most of them will race from Varna (Bulgaria) to Novorossiysk (Russia) before cruising to Sochi (Russia), from where they will race the final leg to Constanta (Romania).
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About Sail Training International (STI)
STI is the international voice of Sail Training, a registered charity (not-for-profit organisation), which has worldwide membership and activities. Its purpose is the development and education of young people through the Sail Training experience, regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background. It organises the annual Tall Ships Races and other international Tall Ship sailing events. STI members are 29 national Sail Training organisations around the world and STI’ head office is in Gosport, Hampshire, UK.
The organisation was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize 2007 for its work in promoting international understanding and friendship. www.sailtraininginternational.org
What is sail training?
Sail Training is an adventure activity, which includes far more than sailing instruction. Participants are required to confront demanding challenges, both physical and emotional. It is an activity that inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility. It promotes an acceptance of others, whatever their social or cultural backgrounds, and develops a willingness to take controlled risks. Those who undertake Sail Training on Tall Ships generally find it a positive life-changing experience.
For more information about the event visit Sail Training International
Sovcomflot (SCF)
SCF is the lead sponsor of The SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta, 30 April – 27 May 2014, and was previously sponsor of The Tall Ships Races 2009. Sovcomflot Group is Russia’s largest shipping company and one of the world’s leading energy transporters.
Its mission is to be the leading international energy shipping company, offering a full range of seaborne energy solutions to its customers, based on advanced shipping technologies and innovations, achieving long-term sustainability of growth and profits through a socially res
