THE countdown is on for one of South Africa’s premier offshore sailing events as competitors from across the country prepare to descend on Durban for the 49th edition of MSC Week, hosted by Point Yacht Club from July 6 to 10.

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With entries continuing to pour in, the fleet will feature sailors travelling from Bloemfontein, Cape Town, East London, Johannesburg and nearby Richards Bay, all eager to take advantage of Durban’s renowned winter sailing conditions.

The city’s offshore waters have long been regarded as some of the finest in the world, attracting both seasoned campaigners and newcomers looking to test themselves on the Indian Ocean.

This year’s five-day regatta once again incorporates the fiercely contested ORC Nationals alongside the L26 Championships. Twelve boats have already entered the ORC Nationals, where crews will compete for the coveted national title under the internationally recognised Offshore Racing Congress handicap system.

Among the most anticipated contests will be the continuation of the rivalry between Durban’s two standout offshore yachts, Regardless 2, skippered by Peter Blofield, and CFM II, sailed by Nigel Milln.
The pair produced one of the closest finishes in recent memory during the 55th Vasco da Gama Race, crossing the line just two seconds apart after 265 nautical miles. Their battle is expected to continue during MSC Week, although both boats will face stiff competition from a highly skilled visiting fleet.

Also returning to defend its reputation is MSC Donna Mia, Captain Salvatore Sarno’s much-loved J33 yacht.

The boat has enjoyed remarkable success over the past three years, winning the national title in 2023 and 2024 before claiming the ORC Division honours last year. This year, Kenwin Daniels of the Izivunguvungu MSC Foundation will take the helm as skipper, aiming to keep the winning streak alive.

Looking back on the yacht’s success, Sarno said: “My J is a good and honest boat, I love her. Drive her correctly and you will win. I have a soft spot for her name which means ‘my woman’. It was chosen by my family – my wife and two sons.

“Kenwin and the guys are coming to keep the title, I hope. They will have to work really hard against the strong fleet!”

On the race management side, experienced official Ron Pet returns as Race Officer for only his second regatta in the role.

A familiar face at MSC Week, Pet co-ordinated the event for eight consecutive years between 2010 and 2017. He also served as Assistant Race Officer to Jimmy Melville during the 2022 J22 World Championships, which were held alongside MSC Week.

While the racing will take centre stage during the day, organisers have planned a full programme of evening entertainment to keep competitors busy ashore.

Sailors can test their general knowledge at trivia night, take to the microphone for karaoke, and enjoy two food and beverage pairing evenings featuring different brews and wines.

In 2027, the club celebrates its 135th anniversary, while MSC Week reaches its landmark 50th edition alongside the running of the 56th Vasco da Gama Race. For more information, visit www.pyc.co.za.

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