Gotland Runt – An offshore race for everyone
The 83rd edition of Gotland Runt starts on Sunday 30th of June in Sandhamn, east of Stockholm. The race, which in recent years started in central Stockholm, is now making an exciting "comeback" to the sailing center of the Stockholm archipelago, Sandhamn.
On a Sunday in March when the sun peeks out and the Stockholm boat show draws to an end, it is about time to plan the sailing season. Many already have the racing calendar completely ready, while others make these decisions on the shipyard when the boat is to be painted and polished.
A lot has of course happened since we saw 500 boats on the starting line in the 80s and 90s, then there were separate starts for Scampi, Ballad, Comfort 30, Linjett 32, Maxi 95 and Scanmar 33. Now, we have no separate one-design starts left and all boats competes under the SRS or ORCi handicap rules. The equipment is on a completely different level and the average boat has grown significantly. On the entry list for this year's race, we find a wide flora of boats from the classic Scampi Boj Boj to the 100-foot-long Gaia.
A total of 130 boats have now registered from eight nations and we encourage those of you who are still weighing your decision to register. The KSSS Offshore Committee, through experienced sailors Odd Lindqvist and Pär Lindforss, has started a project this year where they support those who do not have the same experience. There is an opportunity to receive coaching for those who have questions about everything from preparation to execution. In addition, there is a lot of material to watch on Youtube (in Swedish) with experiences from last year's windy race.
KSSS promises something extraordinary when Gotland Runt returns with the start to Sandhamn. Many have expressed themselves positively about this, probably short-lived, return. Those who like a purer offshore racing should really suit up this year. In addition to the event itself at Sandhamn with lots of fun activities for young and old, transit races from both Saltsjöbaden, Finland and possibly Germany are planned.
If anyone is wondering about logistics, timetables, or anything else, GotlandRunt.se is continuously updated with information, and we will write more about the event itself with articles that you will find in KSSS channels.
We look forward to offer a fantastic sailing party in Sandhamn on June 28 - July 3, 2024!
Warm welcome!
Iohn Ryott
KSSS Information Committee
