The Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup organised by Yacht Club Costa Smeralda in collaboration with the International Maxi Association ended in style this weekend. Reserved for 60-foot and over boats the event this year was part of the first edition of the Rolex Maxi World Championship. Those competing were grouped into different classes, according to type and performance, and all took part in coastal races winding their way through the La Maddalena islands. The Maxi 1 and 2 classes also demonstrated their potential on windward courses.

After a 48-hour delay due to extremely rough conditions, battle commenced for the 43 teams on the third day. Propelled by a 10-16 knot north-westerly, it was all systems go for the fleet. At the end of three races, Leopard 3 of Yacht Club de Monaco’s Joost Schuijff was crowned Rolex IMA Maxi 1 World Champion. Other YCM members also held their own against stiff competition with Peter Harrison (Jolt) coming 2nd in the Maxi 2 as did Benoit de Froidmont (Wallyno) in the Maxi 4. In the Maxi Multihull class, Sir Laidlaw on his Highland Fling XVIII was 3rd and Claus Peter Offen (Y3K) came 4th in the Supermaxi.