The Transat, race start Plymouth 2 May, www.thetransat.com
Preparations are in full swing in Plymouth as the city gets ready to host one of the most famous and gruelling transatlantic races, The Transat. The Transat is a solo ocean yacht race that sets sail every four years from Plymouth and, this year, finishes around 3,000 nautical miles later in New York. From 24th April, Plymouth will host a week of celebrations and events including a brand new Ocean City Rhythm, Blues and Jazz Festival as well as an air show and fireworks display, before The Transat Race sets off on Monday 2nd May 2016.
The event is set to put a worldwide spotlight on Plymouth when approximately 40 boats arrive into Sutton Harbour on 24th April and stay until the start of the race on 2nd May. There will be a range of activities and events for people to get involved in such as visiting the boats, speaking with the skippers and attending the race regatta as well as enjoying entertainment including The Ocean City Blues Festival, an air show and a fireworks display.
The 14th edition of this historic quadrennial solo transatlantic race began its life in 1960 and has transformed into one of the most important events on the professional racing calendar. The race not only attracts many of the world’s leading solo sailors, but will also showcase the latest and most innovative ocean racing machines on the planet.