Race Day 3 of the 21st Samui Regatta

Race Day 3 of the 21st Samui Regatta featured a passage race from Koh Samui to its sister island Koh Phangan and back. Challenging conditions with many changes in wind direction and wind strength from 3 to 12 knots keep crews and tacticians on their toes. 

Hong Kong-based Zannekin, a Ker 46 skippered by Marcel Liedts, claimed victory again today, topping the leaderboard for the third day. Following closely in second place was A35 Iolanthe 3, skippered by Australian Terry Foster representing Thailand’s Ocean Marina Yacht Club, with Australian Steve McConaghy’s Aftershock taking third. Hong Kong's Sam Chan on Freefire and Garth Riley’s Adams 10 Tenacious secured fourth and fifth places, respectively. 

After three days and five races, the overall standings see Zannekin in first place, followed by Iolanthe 3 in second and Freefire in third. Aftershock and Tenacious hold the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. 

Simon James commented on the race status: "After five races, discarding a boat's worst score is now allowed. We are on schedule after 3 days, so tomorrow (30th May) is a reserve day, giving crews a chance to enjoy the delights of Samui. We look forward to seeing everyone on Friday when we will hopefully run a pursuit race around the southern islands of Koh Samui." 

The Samui Regatta, a prestigious event in the international sailing calendar, runs from May 25 to June 1, 2024. All the keelboats in IRC Open Class compete in picturesque setting of Chaweng Beach, off from the Host Venue and regatta center at Nora Beach Resort and Spa. Daily prize giving parties have been arranged for socializing during the five days competition. 

Sam Chan, owner/skipper of Freefire, who has participated in 19 Samui Regattas, expressed his enthusiasm: "I have enjoyed sailing here for 19 years, only missing two. The beautiful scenery of Koh Samui, the beach, Thai hospitality, the regatta arrangements, and the vibrant evening parties after racing make this event enjoyable for sailors and spectators alike." 

The Samui Regatta Organizing Committee, in collaboration with the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand under the Royal Patronage, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Tourism Association of Koh Samui, the Surat Thani Province, and Regatta Asia, orchestrates this renowned event. 

The 21st Samui Regatta 2024 is proudly supported by an array of sponsors essential to its success. Co-sponsors include The Nora Hotel Group, Chaweng Regent Beach Resort, Bangkok Airways, Bangkok Hospital Samui, Haad Thip PCL, Frank Pong & Team Jelik, Singha, Samui VertiColor, Chaweng Gardens Beach Resort, and SUNNE. Media partners include VivaldiPR, Thailand Marine Guide, and Sea Yachting Magazine.