The Oiltanking Vega Offshore Race, organised by the Royal Malta Yacht Club in the build-up to the Rolex Middle Sea Race later this month, starts this morning from Marsamxett Harbour. With a course of 80 nautical miles up and down through the Malta-Sicily channel, one could encounter a variety of weather patterns, making sail changes frequent and competition even more challenging. The race starts at 9.30 a.m. and the prize-giving ceremony will be held at the club in Ta’ Xbiex tomorrow afternoon.