Garmin Round Denmark Race introduces TEXEL rating for 2027

Multihulls have been part of Garmin Round Denmark Race for many years, but in 2027 the race will introduce the TEXEL rating system for the first time.

The new classification gives different types and sizes of multihulls the opportunity to compete against each other on corrected time, adding a new competitive dimension to the approximately 700-nautical-mile race around Denmark.

While Line Honours will still reward the first boat across the finish line, the TEXEL classification creates an additional competition in which performance is measured relative to the individual boat’s rating. This means that the fastest multihull on the water will not necessarily be the winner on corrected time.

For Garmin Round Denmark Race, the introduction of TEXEL is a natural next step in the continued development of the race and an opportunity to strengthen the competition for a group of boats that has been part of the event for many years.

“Multihulls have always brought something special to Garmin Round Denmark Race. They are fast, exciting to follow and represent a very diverse group of boats. By introducing TEXEL, we can now give the multihull fleet a more meaningful competition of its own, where different designs can compete against each other on corrected time,” says Søren Ilsø Mahneke from Aarhus International Sailing Center.

“Our ambition is to make Garmin Round Denmark Race attractive to as many sailors as possible, while still creating fair and competitive racing within the different parts of the fleet. TEXEL gives us another way of doing exactly that.”

With Line Honours, ORC and TEXEL prizes on the line in 2027, Garmin Round Denmark Race will offer several different ways to compete for honours around Denmark - while the fundamental challenge remains the same: approximately 700 nautical miles, non-stop, with start and finish in Aarhus.

Registration opens in October, with an Early Bird discount of €50. Use discount code: 'GRDREARLY' when registration opens.