Severe weather is expected for this year's Gotland Runt
The Gotland Runt Offshore Race 2023 has officially kicked off after Anna Drougge and Fredrik Bergström cut the ribbon during the official opening ceremony tonight. KSSS Chairman Patrik Salén also welcomed all participants on stage, and Race Director Håkan Andersson outlined what we can expect during the race.
The starting line features both professional teams and amateur sailors, and this year they all face an added challenge with a bit of extra spice. Forecasts indicate strong winds on Monday and Tuesday when most boats are in open waters between Gotland and Sandhamn.
"Even though those sailing Gotland Runt know what they're getting into, we are now among the participants, coaching, and reminding them of what they need to keep in mind to handle sailing in harsh weather," says Håkan Andersson, Race Director for Gotland Runt. This could involve preparations for food when the stove cannot be used, or how to divide watches to conserve the crew's energy. Sailing in strong winds is tough.
The sailors are closely monitoring the weather development, and rumors of possible speed records are circulating. The French boat Spiip "Milan" has good conditions for that. With its 65 feet, it is the fastest monohull boat to start. The giant catamaran Allegra could also be in the race for glory. But besides them, many personal records are likely to be broken.
"The atmosphere among the sailors is focused and anticipatory. And maybe a bit nervous. But that's how it should be," says Håkan.
The first start is at 11:00 on Stockholms Ström outside Kastellholmen. The course is 352 nautical miles and goes through the archipelago past Oxdjupet, via Saxarfjärden, Kanholmsfjärden, and out to sea at Korsöhalsar near Sandhamn. Then they round Hoburgen, and with the wind at their backs, they will race towards the finish line in Sandhamn. On Monday evening, we will know if the record is broken when the first boats cross the finish line. The boats will continue to arrive until Wednesday afternoon, when all boats are expected to have finished.
