60-knot squalls hit Middle Sea Race

The 45th running of the Mediterranean offshore, the Rolex Middle Sea Race, saw a spectacularly random mix of conditions - even for a race which is famed for its variable weather patterns.

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The 606-mile classic started from Malta's spectacular harbour in sunshine and brisk winds.

But it was swiftly followed by a vicious squall and thunderstorm on the first evening, as many boats approached the south-east corner of Sicily. Wind speeds rose rapidly from 12-15 knots to a sustained 40-45 knots sweeping across the fleet, some boats reporting 60 knots as the storm hit directly.

Crews also had to contend with lightning, waterspouts and steep, potentially boat-breaking waves. Three boats were dismasted, several suffered severe sail damage and 29 teams retired.

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