The Netherlands has announced its three boat challenge for the prestigious Rolex Commodores’ Cup to be sailed in the Solent off Cowes. The Dutch small boat, Daikin Airco – a HOD35 – owned by Frans van der Heijden, together with middle boat, Checkmate 3 – a BH41 – owned by Peter de Ridder and the large boat, Holmatro – a Grand Soleil 44 Race – of Hans Horrevoets, will race against the other nation teams this summer.

Daikin Airco

Havoc Sailing Team is a proven winner racing Daikin Airco in Dutch waters. Daikin Airco has had a successful start to this season with 13 wins in the Dutch winter series, a first overall in this year’s RORC North Sea Race and winning the ABN-AMRO North Sea Regatta Super-cup as the event’s overall top performing team.

Checkmate 3

This much-travelled BH 41 owned by Peter de Ridder has won many national and international titles under IMS. This will be the fourth time Checkmate 3 has represented the Dutch at the Rolex Commodores’ Cup. In 2002 she was second with Salty Dog and Satori. Before travelling to Cowes she will compete for the IMS600 European Championship to be sailed from 21st – 26th June in Kiel, Germany. Last year she came in second at the European Championships.

Holmatro

Last year Holmatro made an impressive debut winning her class at Skandia Cowes Week and in the Rolex Fastnet Race. The crew comprises a team of talented young sailors supported by sponsor, Holmatro Marine Hydraulics which is enabling it to gain experience in international competition on board a professionally run yacht. The sponsor produces a comprehensive range of rigging hydraulics, with which Holmatro is fitted.