(Cowes, IOW, England)- Two-Handed racing has seen a rise in popularity
in offshore racing and the 2011 Rolex Fastnet Race certainly reflects
this with 31 entries this year. Nick Martin, RORC Rear Commodore will
compete in his 5th Fastnet with his J/105, DIABLO-J, four of which have
been Two-Handed. DIABLO-J is currently at the top of the RORC Season's
Points Championship leader-board in this class:"We've all been inspired by the great solo sailors of our time and RORC's Two-Handed Class continues to support and provide the opportunity for many of us, typically corinthian sailors with full-time careers, to experience challenging and adventurous competitive racing. An extensive program allows us to pitch ourselves against IRC boats of all classes, both Two-Handed and fully crewed alike. It's highly rewarding, especially when you finish ahead of fully-crewed boats," explains Nick. "It is the dream of many sailors to qualify & compete in the Rolex Fastnet Race, so to achieve this in arguably the most challenging class, can be regarded as a pinnacle for many. It's fantastic that we have attracted a large fleet this year and in my opinion, this has become the most competitive of all fleets."
Another competitor, Peter Olden, said: "The challenge of racing double-handed is probably the main factor, particularly in a long distance race where many hours will involve sailing the boat single-handed. The logistics, time and cost of getting a crew fully trained, qualified and equipped, particularly for the modern Fastnet Race are significant. I am certain this is a key driver. Technology has also played its part, for example, modern plotters, computers and AIS save a great deal of time and anxiety, also modern autopilots (properly calibrated) will do amazing work". For more Rolex Fastnet Double-handed sailing information
