Formally the RORC Rolex Fastnet race.
The Fastnet Race has been held since 1925, when it attracted seven entries and was won by Jolie Brise, a converted pilot cutter that is still sailing today. The early races continued in the same vein – sporadic events with small numbers of competitors most of which were not purpose-built racers.
The race continued to grow until by the 70s over 300 boats came to the start line. The 1979 race hit the headlines when the fleet ran into an unforecast and very unusual storm. A combination of strong winds and a 90 degree windshift produced massive and unpredictable seas, which resulted in 15 yachts sinking. This led to a tightening of safety regulations and a 300 boat limit to entries.
Prior to the formation of CSORC, CSSA was involved in offshore racing and indeed entered the 1979 event. Skippered by Julian Forrester, Mosika Alma was knocked down and rolled on more than one occasion, but made it into Falmouth. Her windex was made into the Mosika Alma trophy, which CSORC awards for the best achievement in offshore racing each year (right).
Since then CSORC has entered many Fastnet races, either with our own boat or a boat chartered for the occasion. The race is, of course, held every two years.