The Sandberg PalmaVela got underway today with the start of La Larga, its offshore race, as a fleet of 35 boats left the Real Club Náutico de Palma to begin a course around the Balearic archipelago.

At 13:05 local time, the fleet started in the Bay of Palma under favourable conditions, with a south-southwesterly breeze (200º) of 10 to 13 knots, slightly stronger than forecast, heading towards La Rápita.

This year’s edition brings together six classes: IRC, ORC 0, ORC 1, ORC 2-3, ORC A2 —the largest fleet with double-handed crews— and the Mini 6.50 class.

Before the start, Toni Guiu, owner of the TP52 Aproperties Blue Carbon, highlighted the appeal of the race: “The more you sail, the more you live, and if the race is longer, even better. Racing in Palma is always a plus, with top-level organisation and a highly competitive fleet.”

Three courses, one race

The Race Committee has set three different courses, ranging from 195 to nearly 300 nautical miles, depending on class.

The longest course, close to 300 nm, is reserved for the IRC fleet, including the 30-metre Tilakkhana II, featuring Spanish Olympic champion Támara Echegoyen. The race course includes La Rápita, Formentera, Vedrà and Vedranell, before returning via Espardell and Porto Colom.

IRC yachts are expected to finish during the early hours of April 27, between 04:00 and 07:00.

The 230-nm course is sailed by ORC 0, ORC 1 and Mini 6.50, while ORC 2-3 and ORC A2 compete on a shorter 195-mile course.

The time limit to complete La Larga is set at 10:00 local time on April 28.