An interview with RAN 630 “defender” Guido Baroni

There are eight days to go before the start of the seventh edition of the RAN 630, the longest offshore regatta in the Mediterranean, organized by the Livorno Yacht Club in cooperation with the Naval Academy and the Livorno Navy Sailing Section “Riccardo Gorla.” An exciting event that will see boats from all over Italy compete on a 630-mile course that from Livorno will touch Porto Cervo, the Faraglioni of Capri and then return to the starting point.

Here is what Guido Baroni, owner and skipper of Lunatika, overall and double handed winner of the 2023 edition of the RAN 630 together with Alessandro Miglietti, has to say.

In the previous edition, weather conditions proved to be quite challenging. However, observing from the outside, you were in full control of the boat. What has been your preparatory approach in the face of such conditions?
GB: In general, solid preparation and adequate training before departure are crucial. The fact that we had participated in Rome x2 just before made us very close-knit. Although we had never faced similar conditions before, the boat had been tested and proven, we were confident because everything was in order. We focused on proper sailing, fixing everything that could be fixed, and when we left, it was inspiring to see how well the boat was going. Arriving in front of Porto Vecchio, Corsica, was complicated because of strong wind gusts. However, the passage in front of the Straits of Bonifacio, where the wind constantly blows from the same direction, was less challenging, giving us an exciting ride. The boat was in excellent condition, which allowed us to avoid breakage while sailing.

As for your physical preparation, I imagine you have spent a lot of time in the gym. But did you also adopt any specific diets during this period?
GB: We focused our preparation mainly on aerobic training, such as running, plus with my partner we practiced rock climbing, which allowed us to develop good muscles in the upper body as well. However, the main problem in such a long race is fatigue, which requires constant attention from the start.

You are returning to defend the victory achieved last year. It is clear that this regatta will be extremely competitive. Have you made any changes in your strategy or preparation for this challenge?
GB: No, we have kept our sailing plan unchanged, which was designed for ocean regattas that we had planned, although they have been suspended for the time being. We therefore continue to use gennakers, even though we know we are sacrificing some rating points. This year we expect extremely tough competition; this regatta is becoming more and more popular.

What motivations made you decide to participate again?
GB: We decided to return mainly to defend the title we won in 2023. In addition, the organization of the regatta is excellent and the course is simply breathtaking and very varied with its different climatic and therefore weather zones. Departing from Livorno and sailing to the Strait of Bonifacio, crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea in the direction of Capri and then coasting to Livorno offers us a unique experience.

How did you and Alessandro Miglietti decide to participate together in double offshore racing?
GB: I started boating with the Laser, but in an amateur way. On the other hand, Alexander has participated in double handed offshore racing since his youth. Our meeting happened by chance while planning a project to circumnavigate the globe in crewed stages. We got along well, and when I decided to purchase Lunatika, I naturally chose him as my partner. This is also because we both prefer doubles racing. Although they are extremely challenging, we believe that success is closely related to the harmony between crew members and the boat.

After RAN 630, are you planning to participate in any other regattas this year?
GB: Certainly, we will come to the RAN 630 right after the Rome x2, and we have already confirmed our participation in the 151 Miglia Trofeo Cetilar. I am considering adding another regatta on the offshore circuit, such as Three Gulfs Sailing Week in Naples. In general, April and May are crucial and event-dense months for regattas in the Mediterranean.

What was your path to approach offshore racing?
GB: After several years devoted to climbing and mountaineering, I decided to return to the world of sailing. However, this time I had to start from scratch, learning the basics aboard cabin boats. I started with lessons at the lake with an instructor, then moved to the sea by participating in cruises and offshore courses with the Orza Minore sailing school. Later, I had the opportunity to gain experience in ocean sailing by crossing the Atlantic, then stretching to the Galapagos Islands and the Marquesas before reaching Australia. This extraordinary adventure has taught me the importance of boat preparation and maintenance to ensure high standards of safety for everyone on board. On the way back, I decided to look for my own boat, so Lunatika came along. From that moment, we started this wonderful experience together.

What would you call the Naval Academy Regatta known as RAN 630?
GB: As I mentioned, the RAN 630 represents an extraordinary regatta that allows one to cross the Tyrrhenian Sea entirely, which is considered the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. During the navigation we pass by the Tuscan Archipelago, Corsica and Sardinia, and then reach Capri and skirt the Latium and Tuscan coasts. It is truly an extraordinary experience, made even more memorable by the impeccable organization that really pampered us.

Are you also planning to do the Rolex Middle Sea Race in doubles?
GB: We have already participated in the Middle Sea Race in 2023, but as a crew. It is a special regatta, and although the conditions were perfect for Lunatika, on board we failed to create the right atmosphere, compromising our performance. It was my first time at the Middle Sea Race and I had chosen to do it as a crew to involve everyone who had followed the boat at various levels. However, we would like to do it again in pairs. The main problem is that Malta is really far away and getting there is extremely challenging. Lunatika returned to its home port of Varazze in mid-November after months spent between regattas and transfers.

There are 19 yachts registered for RAN 630, those interested in last minute participation can contact the secretariat at the following email: regate@ycl.it

The Notice of Race is available at the following link: https://ran630.it/bando-di-regata/