The Royal Madras Yacht Club (RMYC) Ennore Centre successfully defended its championship title in the gold fleet category at the fifth edition of the UNIFI Capital Offshore Regatta, held in Chennai from May 20 to 23. Organized by RMYC under the aegis of the Yachting Association of India, the event brought together eight teams, including sailors from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and civilian sailing groups. With around 60 participants, this edition was the largest in the regatta's history.
Race Details and Format
The regatta commenced at 9:30 AM from the Boat Basin inside Chennai Port. The competition was conducted in two legs: from Chennai Port to Mahabalipuram and back, and from Chennai to Kamarajar Port and return. Participants competed on J80 class sailboats. The regatta featured two categories: Gold Fleet for professional teams and Silver Fleet for amateur sailors.
As part of the format, organizers introduced a ranking event during the first two days. The competition was overseen by an international jury, along with a measurement team and on-water umpiring to ensure fair play. All participating boats were equipped with satellite trackers provided by Elektronik Labs, enabling real-time tracking through the Track Anything platform. Safety arrangements were supported by the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard, while the Maritime Rescue and Coordination Centre monitored the fleet throughout the races.
Winners and Dignitaries
In the Gold Fleet category, RMYC Ennore Centre emerged as winners. The team was led by skipper Abhimanyu Panwar, along with Capt Vivek Shanbhag, Arvind Iyer, Dheer Singhi, and Roshni Anand. Dilip Donde, the first Indian to complete a solo circumnavigation under sail, attended as chief guest. Other dignitaries present included S Viswanathan, Chairperson of Chennai Port Authority; Rear Admiral Upal Kundu; Rotarian Suresh Jain; and Coast Guard DIG Murugan.
The regatta highlighted the growing interest in offshore sailing in India and the strong collaboration between civilian and defense sailing communities. The use of advanced tracking technology and stringent safety measures ensured a smooth and competitive event.
About the Author
Christopher Miltus is a reporter who gives a strong voice to the people of Chennai and Tambaram. He writes with a serious eye on civic issues, from roads and drains to waste management and public safety. Water supply and sewerage are areas he follows closely, making sure authorities are held accountable. At the same time, Christopher enjoys picking up off-beat stories and tracking the latest trends that excite today's youth.
