A KING’S RACE
Superfast speed machines will descend on the Bay of Palma for the 37th edition of Copa del Rey this July Words: Sue Pelling
he Bay of Palma known as a popular sailing playground for competitive racing types is preparing to dazzle once again. The 37th Copa del Rey – MAPFRE, which takes place from 28 July – 4 August from the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP) is arguably the club’s most legendary event and is definitely worth planning a trip for.
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Those already stationed in the Bay of Palma during this period can look forward to a racing ‘Derby’ with the number of entries expected to exceed last year’s record 138 boats. With more and more race teams recognising the Copa del Rey – MAPFRE as the ideal regatta to enjoy a week of top competition in stunning racing conditions with consistent sea breezes, an even bigger turnout is expected this year.
Now in its 37th year, this prime European regatta is where the cream of big boat race teams like to ‘hang out’. Andy Soriano is a big fan of the Copa del Rey. Last year
60 | SUMMER 2018 | ONBOARD
he won the Mallorca Sotheby’s IRC class with a race to spare in his British-flagged TP52 – Alegre – achieving his goal of winning three times at the regatta with three different Alegres – Soto 40, Maxi 72, TP52.
Commenting on the regatta, Soriano said: “This is the regatta and so to win it in three different boats is just great. I think this regatta has a great number and variety of boats, and the atmosphere and the nature of this club is so welcoming to sailors and to their families. The club really embraces the presence here of families and as a crew we love that. This club is so welcoming.”
About the racing and the rating system the organisers use, Soriano added: “The lRC rating here really seems to work. It balances itself. We (as a class box rule compliant TP52 in 52 Super Series configuration) had the bigger mainsail but the shorter mast, less keel so it seemed to work out well.” Yachts and their teams are based at
© Maria Muiòa
Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP) for the duration of the regatta, which is the perfect place to prepare for a week of intense racing. The large clubhouse and its facilities welcomes the teams, guests and visitors to enjoy the many social functions for crew and spectators..
RACE FORMAT Racing generally will take place on Bay of Palma in different categories – One-design (Club Swan 50 Swan 45 Club Swan 42, GC 32, J/80), Handicap (IRC, ORC, Maxi 72), Box Rule (TP52), and Melges 40. This year, for the first time ever at the event, the 6m class has been invited, which could spark interest with the former King of Spain – King Juan Carlos, who used to race this previous Olympic class.
The number of races varies depending on the class of yacht but generally there will be no more than three races a day over windward/leeward courses in the bay. The
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