With the start of the 2022 Rolex Middle Sea Race just three weeks away, another fascinating contest beckons. The entry list currently stands at 120 yachts representing 25 countries including Ireland.

As Afloat reported, Kinsale Yacht Club has two entries in the race. Conor Doyle’s Xp50 Freya returns to the Mediterranean and joins club mate Thomas Roche’s Meridian, a Salona 45.

While Covid is no longer so much in the headlines, there are plenty of other uncertainties in the world but, yet again, the 606 nautical mile classic is proving its global appeal. Starting from Grand Harbour, Valletta on Saturday, 22 October, to the crash of cannon fire from the Saluting Battery high above the water, the stage looks set for another cracking race.

Conor Doyle’s Xp50 Freya from Kinsale Photo: Michael Chester

The range and breadth of the fleet has been well-rehearsed in previous releases. Here are just a few of the facts: 112 monohulls, eight multihulls (including five 21 metre racing trimarans), largest yacht: Leopard 3 at 30.48m, smallest yacht: Cuorematto at 9.5m, most entries from Italy with 27 followed by France with 19, furthest travelled entries: High Five from New Zealand and Maverick from Australia; and 11 double handed entries including two-time Olympic medallist Jonathan McKee on Red Ruby from the USA.

Thomas Roche’s Meridian, a Salona 45 Photo: Bob Bateman

Multihulls

An almighty clash is expected between Giovanni Soldini’s Maserati Multi 70, former line honours winner;…