On Thursday, May 15, Russian President Vladimir Putin presented awards to the crews of the sailing ship «Nadezhda» and the yacht «Akela»,RIA Novosti «reports». « Nadezhda» was awarded for the longest passage to the regatta venue (from Vladivostok), and «Akela» - for crossing the finish line in the race Varna - Novorossiysk among the first.
The Head of State also congratulated other winners of the first stage of the Big Sail Regatta at the Black Sea and wished all the sportsmen a successful completion and passage of the second stage(Sochi - Constanta (Romania)). Several special prizes were awarded.
Several dozen vessels from nine countries are taking part in the competition.
The competition began in the city of Varna, from where yachtsmen headed to Novorossiysk. From Novorossiysk training sailing boats proceeded to Sochi, where they participated in cultural events.
On May 17 competitors start the second race; the results will be used to announce the winners. Tentatively, the awarding ceremony will take place between 26 and 29 May.
