The 33rd edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup has served up spectacular and challenging sailing conditions and provided the platform for elite crews to demonstrate their skill and appetite for first-class competition.

After three days of racing, the leaders of the six classes are Galateia (Maxi A), Proteus and Bella Mente (Maxi B), Spirit of Lorina (Maxi C), Y3K (Supermaxi), Allegra (Maxi multihull) and Svea (J Class).

For nearly 40 years, the event has been organised by the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS), in conjunction with the International Maxi Association. The event is considered the perfect sailing package – combining top race management, an enviable nautical environment and uniting a fleet comprised of some of the world’s most impressive maxi yachts.

Following today’s lay day, two days of racing remain, concluding on Saturday, 9 September.

Mike Slade's Leopard 3 won the prestigious Maxi Racing Class at the 27th edition of the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup in Porto Cervo, Italy today.

After a fascinating duel between Mike Slade's British Maxi Leopard 3 and Round Ireland monohull record holder George David's American Maxi Rambler 88, the winner of the biggest prize in Maxi Racing, hung on the very last race. During the 30-mile decider, the two high-performance yachts were locked in an intense battle, never more than a few boat length apart. At the finish line, Mike Slade's Farr 100 Leopard 3 was just seconds ahead of George David's Rambler 88, to claim one of the biggest prizes in the sport.

“Early this year, Leopard had a major refit, including adding more sail power, that combined with winning every start at the regatta was the key to our success. Huge thanks to the the crew and Skipper, Chris Sherlock, for all the long hours put in to turn Leopard into a world beater. I am on cloud nine, winning at the Maxis is a wonderful achievement.” commented Mike Slade.

Mike Slade's Leopard 3 will be back in action at Les Voiles de St Tropez from the 24th September, before competing in the 3000-mile RORC Transatlantic Race in November, with a full Caribbean season to follow.