20 September 2007
The second Bonifacio Yacht Rally finished in brilliant conditions, with a balmy 12-knot north-westerly breeze.
The final race was a 40th anniversary celebration for Yacht Club Costa Smerelda. His highness Agha Khan established the Costa Smerelda as the focal point of what is now a flourishing tourism industry. The philanthropist has also set up his own airport and airline, several hotels and a couple of golf courses.
Bonifacio itself was unanimously voted as a highlight of the event, sail-world.com reports. The stunning 60-metre limestone cliffs, which are dotted with medieval homes, made for an imposing backdrop to the sporting event.
Warwick Penn from the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron and his crew on Moresca, a Bavaria 49, pipped Richard Hammond by one point.
Hammond, who was sailing a Beneteau Cyclades 43.3, had led all of the way.
Participants are already eagerly anticipating the 2008 Bonifacio Yacht Rally next September, which will be an official event on the CYCA calendar.
