Raja Muda 2011

by Jeff Harris on 23 Jun 2011 For the 22nd consecutive year, the Royal Selangor Yacht Club (RSYC) in Malaysia is organising the latest edition of the Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta (RMSIR).

This challenging international sailing event consists of three overnight passage races, over 200 miles in total, from Port Klang (near Kuala Lumpur) to Pangkor Island, Pangkor to Penang Island and Penang to Langkawi Island, plus two days of 'round the cans' harbour racing. Along the way, dinners and parties are organised almost every night, together with trishaw races, trips to heritage sites and lots of opportunities to socialise. For many crew members, these onshore activities can be almost as demanding as the sailing!

Feedback from past competitors on what they like about the regatta is quite consistent – the challenge, the sheer infuriating difficulty of it, and the variety of racing. One seasoned campaigner is quoted as saying 'it’s the best regatta in Asia. The one I’ll always come back for, ahead of all the others.' Well organised race management is an important factor in attracting entrants and RSYC is pleased to announce that Jerry Rollin will be bringing his considerable experience into play again this year as Race Officer.

This year the regatta will visit the brand new Straits Quay Marina in Tanjung Tokong, Penang for the first time. Featuring a sheltered location with dredged entrance channel and modern, full facility pontoons, the marina is situated close to the area used for harbour racing at Penang. Safe berthing facilities are considered a priority by RMSIR organisers. Particular concerns have been raised following the incident at last year’s King’s Cup where an overnight storm caused at least twelve yachts at anchor to be driven on to the beach, with two being wrecked.

Developed by the Eastern and Oriental Group, Straits Quay includes serviced apartments, shops and many restaurants, cafes and bars, some with tables and chairs overlooking the water. A prime destination for visiting boaters, the facility will also offer visitors a range of exciting water related activities, boat charters and excursions.

Raja Muda sailors will take part in a land based challenge around the marina perimeter, followed by an evening trying out those bars!

This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Jugra Cup, awarded for the winner of the Premier Cruising Class. The cup is named after the yacht formerly owned by HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, the ninth reigning Sultan of Selangor. Starting in 1995, while he was Raja Muda of Selangor, he completed a 22-month round the world voyage aboard his yacht SY Yugra, a Nautor Swan 68’ sloop. HRH is the Regatta Patron, and Honorary Life Commodore of RSYC.

A revised web site www.rmsir.com is now up and running to provide a wealth of information related to RMSIR, including the Notice of Race, Sailing Instructions, hotel details, charters and crewing opportunities. Entrants can register and take advantage of 'early bird' discounts via this site.

Many organisations continue to be loyal supporters of the event, including Tourism Malaysia, Selangor State, Malaysian Yachting Association, Guinness Anchor Berhad, YTL Corporation, Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, Langkawi Development Authority, Penang Port, Penang Global Tourism, Palmgold Corporation, Masteron Sdn Bhd and Limbongan Batu Muang. The regatta organisers are also actively encouraging new sponsors and partners to become involved. Tiger Beer will feature prominently this year, with free supplies available at every party, and Strongbow Cider will sponsor a special cup.

Eight days of racing always end with an evening social on the terrace of the Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, complete with a backdrop of the sun setting over surrounding islands. With speeches and prize giving out of the way, the real party starts on the dance floor. Crews banter about final results and taking each other on at the Kings Cup in Thailand, the next event in the Asian circuit. For long time competitors and first timers alike, taking part in the Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta brings a true sense of achievement.

Dates: 18 – 26 November 2011

For further details on all aspects of the 2011 RMSIR and to contact the organisers, visit the regatta web site at www.rmsir.com

The Regatta is organised by Royal Selangor Yacht Club www.rsyc.com.my