The Aegean Sailing Rally

The 2014 Aegean Sailing Rally, organised by the Hellenic Offshore Racing Club,  will be held on July 18th to July 24th. It is an event that will be raced over 340 nautical miles in 2014 (depending on which course is devised the race distance can vary from 250 to 400 miles) and will include four racing legs.

A prestigious sailing event, this annual rally began in 1964, with competitors coming from all over the world to take part. Top Greek sailing teams also take part in what is regarded as the most important sailing regatta in the whole of Greece. The types of vessels that feature at the rally can range from supersport racers to impressive yachts.

The Four Racing Legs

Athens to Milos (a distance of 75 miles) will be the first leg of the 2014 Aegean Sailing Rally. This will be followed by comfortably the longest leg of the rally – the 120 miles from Milos to Astypalea. Next is the shortest leg, which is the 60 miles from Astypalea to Ios. Ios to Sounion is the final leg of the event, and this leg is a distance of some 83 miles.

A Chance To Take In Wonderful Scenery

Crews for the event can be made up of experienced sailors to those looking to experience serious sailing for the first time. The rally was originally a sailing event, but over time has become more of a cultural experience for those taking part and watching the event. The schedule is such that there are four days dedicated to racing, while the remaining days of the 2014 Aegean Sailing Rally allow competitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Aegean Islands. There will also be special events laid on at each of the race’s destinations, and these will reflect the culture of the specific destination. Some of the delights on offer include watermelon pies and an array of 80 beaches.

A Particularly Testing 2014 Race

The 2014 Aegean Sailing Rally, the 51st, is expected to take place in strong north winds, and the route has been designed in such a way that it will test the athletic prowess of the individual crews.

Photo Credit: Anestis_ via Compfight cc

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