"Sjælland Rundt" was once one of the classic regattas on the Baltic Sea. At its peak, almost 2,000 yachts took part. The round race was a popular challenge for both cruising and regatta sailors. From IOR to Danks Handicap to large standardised fields in all conceivable classes - 30 ballads were not uncommon - the regatta attracted everyone who enjoyed sailing.
Seeland myth
The island of Zealand, traditionally left on the port side, offered a variety of course variations that could be adapted to the different speeds of the participants. The course always maintained a balance between ambitious challenge for some and sheltered trial and error for others. However, as the IOR formula faded into obscurity and fewer and fewer yachts took part in the regatta, the number of participants fell year on year. What was once the largest yacht regatta in the world sank into obscurity and in recent years has eked out a miserable, even undignified existence.
New life for an old longing
But that is now to end and the almost forgotten mass event is to be given a new lease of life: With a rigorous return to past values, the long-distance regatta wants to blossom again and build on its former popularity. To this end, the programme is to be thoroughly revamped. "The course around the island of Zealand has lost none of its fascination over the years," says the organising Helsingør Amatør Sejlklub. The aim is therefore to make the route and the "long-distance" adventure appealing to sailors again.
Back to the people's regatta?
This year, participation should literally be open to everyone: Yachts with or without a measurement certificate should take part just as much as ambitious regatta crews from the very active Øresund scene. To make the event even more attractive, the date has been brought forward by 14 days. The aim is to be able to organise the regatta as a complete event over a long weekend with a target sailing time of 60 to 72 hours. In other words: starting signal on Thursday evening, finish and closing party on Saturday, sailing out and return journey of the participants on Sunday.
