Norwegian king sails in heritage-steeped Helsinki regatta

OHMYGOSSIP — Close in the wake of the Tall Ships Race, Helsinki welcomes a new fleet of sailing vessels this weekend, with an international racing tradition stretching back more than a century. Dozens of 8mR class sailboats are converging on the Finnish capital for the 8-metre world championships. Despite the name, most of these yachts are 13-15 metres long.

Among those leading crews in the competition is Norwegian King Harald V. He is sailing his family’s yacht, the Sira, which was built in 1938 – the year after his birth. The monarch arrived in Helsinki last week and has been familiarising himself with the local waters ever since, Yle mediates.

Measurement and registration begin on Thursday, followed by practise races over the weekend and the start of real competition on Monday, July 29. There are nine races during the week, with the world champion being crowned on Saturday, August 3.

The competition is hosted by the Helsingfors Segelsällskap (HSS) club, which was established in 1893. Taking part are 27 boats from 11 countries.