Sailing Arabia all set to start in Bahrain’s Amwaj Marina

Action from the EFG Bank - Sailing Arabia race last year. — Supplied photo

With just three days to go before the start of EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour 2014, the excitement around the start location of Amwaj Marina in Bahrain is beginning to build. This event, which runs from February 9-24, is now in its fourth year and offers 15 days of intense sailing to Test the skills of not only the region’s best sailing talent, but also a selection of elite world class sailors, a Press release said.

The 760 nautical mile course spans over four countries from Bahrain to Oman, with eight of the region’s premier marinas playing host as stopover venues during the seven legs of the course. A total of six teams representing four countries —Oman, EU, Monaco and The Netherlands — have confirmed their entry, with many using the final few days before the start to fine-tune and prepare for the challenge.

Sidney Gavignet, skipper of EFG Bank (Monaco) — Olympian and winning Volvo Ocean Race skipper — who took part in last year’s event, said the aim is to win, so preparation is important: “We have a lot to do including installing the navigation computer and GPS. Training is particularly important for us because we’ve not sailed together before.”

The busy Amwaj Marina where the fleet of identical Farr 30s are based for the start is fast becoming a hot spot, and a showcase for spectators gathering not only to witness the elite sailors preparing for Sunday’s start, but also to offer their support to the region’s competitors who have embraced EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour with its commitment to inspire a new generation of sailors.

American Katie Pettibone, skipper of Al-Thuraya Bank Muscat’s all women’s team, is no stranger to serious racing. As a member of three America’s Cup teams, two round the world race crews and two Sailing Arabia - The Tour teams, she hopes to improve the team’s knowledge and provide them with the skills they need for a future Omani women’s entry.

Pettibone said: “Part of growing as a team and improving skills is evaluating performance honestly, making plans of action for improvement, and then carrying out the action plans. “Our final boat preparation includes making sure the boat is ready for offshore racing, and putting in as much practice as possible.

“Crew morale is good. Everyone is excited to get the adventure underway and start sailing. It’s a magnificent region to sail in and I enjoy it very much, which I is why I keep coming back.” Taking it seriously is what EFG Sailing Arabia – The Tour is all about, and a good result is highly regarded particularly with the event’s growing reputation and pedigree as a world-class regatta.