| UK. Brigs battle it out in match race |
|
|
|
| Wednesday, 02 November 2005 | |
|
Tall Ships news: The only identical Tall Ships in the world PRINCE WILLIAM and STAVROS S NIARCHOS are taking part in an exciting match race out in the Solent on 1 and 2 November 2005. Rarely seen sailing in the same waters, this is just the third time ever that the giants will race. Following just one day of race training, a mixed crew of novice and experienced sailors are battling it out over two days covering a course set past Portsmouth’s historic naval ramparts, around markers set in the Solent and off the Isle of Wight, and back into Gunwharf Quays. With 18 square sails – enough to cover eight tennis courts - and no winches onboard, this will be a true test of seamanship, teamwork and communication skills. The ships are competing for the Tall Ships Challenge Cup, currently held by Prince William, and the Harbour Entrance Award currently held by Stavros S Niarchos. Race one: After an early start, both brigs left Gunwharf under a brooding sky for the start line off Bembridge. With a variable force 2-4 SW wind, the racing action looked promising and both crews, wrapped warmly in their waterproofs, were in good fighting spirits. Out in the Solent both crews headed for the start line off Bembridge Ledges and set their sails in unison. With the threat of squalls in the air, Capt Liam and Capt Bob both sportingly agreed not to set the Royals so the brigs were all set with 4 sails on each mast. Dead on 1030, the brigs switched off their engines and sailed across the start line. With an increasing breeze it wasn't long before STAVROS (yes... STAVROS!) started to inch forward. By the time the brigs reached the first turning mark off Sandown Hill, STAVROS had taken a commanding lead. The forlorn faces on PRINCE WILLIAM told a thousand pictures as the cheering crew of STAVROS left last years winner in her wake. As the wind picked up, so did the crew's spirits and PRINCE WILLIAM started to give a good chase. But at the finish line 3 hours later it was STAVROS who took the first race with a 4min 30 sec lead over PRINCE WILLAM. It's her first win in the Brig Match series and a well deserved acheivement for experinced Tall Ship Captain Bob Stephenson. Race Two commences at 1100 on Wednesday 02 November off Bembridge (depart GWQ at 0830). http://www.tallships.org |
|
| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 02 November 2005 ) |
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|