XXI Copa del Rey of Vintage Yachts at Club Maritimo de Mahon - Day 3
by Vela Clásica de Menorca / Jose Luís Miró 30 Aug 08:52 UTC
26-30 August 2025
Mariska, Spartan, Amorita and Argos edge closer to victory
Friday's racing unfolded without incident, after Thursday's storm that forced the suspension of competition and sidelined two of the regatta's biggest names: Tuiga (1909) and Lady Anne (1912). With more stable conditions, sunshine overhead and a steady southwesterly breeze of around eight knots, the fleet completed a coastal course towards Isla del Aire, finishing inside Mahón harbour.
Gaff Rig (Época Cangreja)
Spartan (1913), designed by Nathanael Herreshoff, once again proved untouchable, crossing the line first after covering the 21.5-mile course in just over three hours. Skippered by Aladin Montel, the yacht has dominated all week and is already mathematically assured of the title in the Gaff Rig division. Behind them, Rowdy (1916), owned by Dona Dyer, has established itself as the main contender for second place against its sistership Chinook (1916).
Bermudan Rig (Época Bermudiana)
Amorita (1937), a beautiful Nicholas S. Potter design owned by Claudio Meali, has all but secured its class thanks to two commanding victories. Today it finished well ahead of Santana (1935), one of the event's star attractions, famous for its storied past, immaculate restoration and its most notable owner, Humphrey Bogart, who once referred to it as his personal "sanctuary." Sonny (1935), designed by Sparkman & Stephens and owned by Harold Goddijn, currently holds third place overall.
Classics
In the Classics division, Argos (1964), skippered by Bárbara Trilling, is on course for what looks set to be its eighth Copa del Rey Repsol title. Neither Mowgly (1965) nor Albacore (1966) could topple the consistency of the New York Yacht Club entrant, which once again prevailed on corrected time despite not being the fastest boat on the water.
Spirit of Tradition
Drama is guaranteed in this class after Flight of Durgan claimed today's win to move into the overall lead. Barlovento-Senda Azul and Happy Forever remain in close pursuit. All three yachts are tied on points, setting up a thrilling showdown in tomorrow's final race.
Big Boats
In the Big Boats division, following the retirements of Tuiga and Lady Anne, Mariska (1908) dominated without opposition against Cariad (1896), which, despite its greater length, could not compete with the FI15—a design conceived purely for racing.
SailingShots by María Muiña have been capturing every day of the Classic Sailing in Menorca, and here we share some of the best images from her gallery.