Oren Nataf claimed victory in the Armen Race in the Multi 2000 category. Competing on Rayon Vert, the Yacht Club de Monaco member completed the 350 nautical mile course in particularly challenging conditions. At the end of 1 day 12 hours 6 minutes and 33 seconds at sea, battling winds over 40 knots, he secured victory in his category and achieved a remarkable 2nd place overall out of the 200 boats registered.
The Armen Race is one of the big spring offshore classics with a course that every year demands tough tactical choices in demanding sailing conditions, and physical endurance. This 2026 edition spared no one. From the start conditions were challenging with a choppy sea and strong wind that steadily increased, gusting up to over 40 knots which made manoeuvres particularly complicated. In total across all classes 51 retirements were recorded.
As the sole representative in the Multi 2000 class on the start, for Rayon Vert there was just one winner. But in coming 2nd overall in a packed fleet that included Class40, IRC and Sun Fast 30 OD, the boat and crew’s performance takes on a whole other dimension. With 644 sailors representing 176 European clubs competing in this anniversary edition, the level was exceptionally high across all classes.
This 15th Armen Race will be remembered as a demanding edition with challenging conditions from start to finish. Between long hours under pressure, difficult seas and unstable weather, the teams had to contend with a physically and mentally draining race. Oren Nataf secured victory in the Armen Race after a masterclass in racing that confirms his ability to succeed in offshore races.
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