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MainSail

Episode 37

Capri

This month MainSail starts the Mediterranean racing season in the Bay of Naples. Presenter, Shirley Robertson, reports from Rolex Capri Sailing Week, which features a record fleet of 51 entries. The regatta is played out against the stunning backdrop of the Italian island of Capri, which has long been a playground for the rich and famous, from Roman emperors to Hollywood film stars.

JIM RICHARDSON

The Farr 40s are one of the most popular classes for owner/drivers, who get the chance to compete in top international regattas, steering their own yacht, instead of hiring in a professional to take the wheel. Shirley Robertson gets on board ‘Barking Mad’ with American owner Jim Richardson, a two-time World Champion.  Richardson is on the helm, but has the expert advice of Volvo Ocean race skipper Bouwe Bekking, who calls tactics.

MASSIMO MASSACCESI

Shirley Robertson interviews the President of the Yacht Club Capri, which jointly hosts this event with the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda of Sardinia. Robertson talks to Massimo Massaccesi about this stylish event and about the beautiful island of Capri.

LEONARDO FERRAGAMO

Another owner/driver class in this event is the Swan 45s. Nautor’s Swan are known for their luxury cruising yachts, which also have the speed to compete in top international races. The Swan 45 is their most competitive yacht and Shirley Robertson tries out her helming skills on Cuordileone, owned by the chairman of the Nautor Group, Leonardo Ferragamo.

Rolex Capri Sailing Week is also known for its social events. Louise Moran reports from the Certosa di San Giacomo monastery in Capri, the venue for the yacht owners’ glamorous party. Leonardo Ferragamo, of the Italian fashion family, describes what makes this regatta special for him.

COMET YACHTS

While the other classes at this event field a range of international entries, the Comet yachts from Italy’s Comar Shipyard are a strictly Italian affair. MainSail climbs aboard the yacht Ola to take part in one of their races.

AND FINALLY …

A Round-up of Rolex Capri Sailing Week – all the best of the action, plus class results and reaction from the winners.