![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet1.jpg)
Spectators watching the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race start from the Royal Yacht Squadron
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet2.jpg)
Start of the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet3.jpg)
PAKEA BIZKAIA (ESP), IMOCA 60, at the starting line off the Royal Yacht Squadron, Cowes
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet4.jpg)
LUNA ROSSA reaching down the Solent after race start
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet5.jpg)
The Farr 100 ICAP LEOPARD, leads the fleet after the start
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet6.jpg)
The newly-launched 80-foot Beau Geste (HKG) by Hurst Castle lighthouse
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-fastnet7.jpg)
Class Zero’s MOANA (BEL), NIMROD (GBR), and DESPERADO (GBR) sailing past the Needles
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-FastnetPG27.jpg)
Karl Kwok’s Blue Water 80 Beau Geste at the start of the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race
![](https://www.sailingworld.com/uploads/2021/09/119-FastnetPG30.jpg)