Photos: First Finishers In Newport Bermuda Race

June 17, 2012

Yachts in the Newport-Bermuda Race started crossing the finish line this morning [June 17] smashing race records as they finished.

Less than 40 hours after leaving Newport, the first boat crossed the finish line off St David’s just after 7am Bermuda time, with George David’s Rambler claiming the honours — and breaking the record — in the 635-mile race from Newport to Bermuda.

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A delighted George David said. “These were perfect conditions. The most exciting moment was when we hit 26 knots. I’m so pleased with our performance. We have reduced the record by 25% – Not bad for a boat that is now 10 years old. This Rambler is the best boat I have ever owned!”

Race officials said, “George David’s 90ft maxi Rambler has smashed the 635 mile Newport Bermuda Race record, clipping a massive 14 hours off the previous best time set 10 years ago by Roy Disney’s Pyewacket. The new record now stands at 39hr, 39 minutes, 18 seconds [subject to ratification] – an average speed of 16knots.”

Four boats have completed the race so far including the Rambler, Shockwave, Bella Mente and Team Tiburon. The Med Spirit and Kodiak are expected at the finish line in the next hour or two. Rambler, Shockwave, and Bella Mente have already made their way to Hamilton, where they were greeted by both family members and heavy rain.

On corrected time however, Shockwave beat Rambler by 33 minutes, followed by Belle Mente in 3rd and Team Tiburon 4th. Two yachts in class 10 are still racing.

Click to enlarge photos: