Durban -
The Durban sailing fraternity will be hitting the water on Sunday as they try to make a splash and help set a Guinness world record.
They will be taking part in the inaugural Bart’s Bash, which, it is hoped, will enter the record books as the largest sailing race in 24 hours at multiple venues worldwide.
More than 9 000 sailors from around the globe and 716 clubs will take part in the fun event, including the Royal Natal Yacht Club.
The charity event falls on the yacht club’s Opening Cruise, which opens the summer sailing season in Durban.
Andrew Simpson, nicknamed “Bart”, was an English sailor who won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
He died in a training session for the 34th America’s Cup in San Francisco when his catamaran capsized last year, trapping him underneath.
Royal Natal Yacht Club commodore Graham Rose said the club was delighted to be part of the record-breaking attempt.
“The Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation was set up after his death to inspire the next generation through sailing. Here in Durban, we are also trying to grow our great sport and continue to encourage people to discover the world of sailing,” he said.
The race is set locally by each club, but has to meet Guinness World Records rules. The course has to be more than 1km and competitors need to sail for longer than 15 minutes. There must also be a minimum of 25 boats taking part at each location.
“We will be racing in the harbour after all our formalities for opening our sailing season. The day will begin with the annual sail-past, where the flotilla of yachts all follow in a single line past the dignitaries on a dressed-up yacht before heading off to Bart’s Bash,” Rose said.