First win for Uniquely Singapore

Uniquely Singapore crossed the shortened finish line for Race 8 at 1353 GMT yesterday [Tuesday 30 May] bagging their first win in the Clipper 05-06 Round the World Yacht Race. The Singaporean boat finished just off the coast of Mexico, [20 44.49 North 107 05.85 West] with Durban crossing the line soon after at 1600 GMT. However, there will be no time for either boat to stop for celebratory tequilas as the fleet need to make swift headway to Panama City for their passage through the Canal.

After crossing the line, Skipper Richard Falk said: 'After a nail biting drift to the finish we crossed the line at 13:53:35. The last 12 hrs were intolerable as we had 37 miles to go with Durban approximately 27 miles behind us. There was always the chance of them carrying some new breeze down with them and that is exactly what happened. At the time we finished they were some 6 or 7 miles from the finish.'

The Singaporean crew has led for much of the 2,200 mile race, and this win marks their first podium finish. Prior to Race 8 they were lying in 8th place overall, so this result will carry them up the leaderboard, in a race where there is still everything to play for.

Shortly after the start, an early but conservative move out to the west of the main bulk of the fleet provided better winds for the Singaporean boat and ensured a them a commanding position that they maintained for the remainder of the two-week race.

Richard added: “The whole crew is absolutely ecstatic. Everyone worked hard on this leg and the crew is thoroughly deserving of the win.'

Race 8 from Victoria to Panama City was shortened due to the continued presence of Tropical Revolving Storm Aletta across the path of the boats, and uncertainties over its further development.

The Liverpool 08 Clipper was the third podium placed boat to cross the line, finishing this morning at 0222 GMT.

After finishing, the boats will negotiate TRS Aletta and proceed to Panama City where they are expected to arrive around 10th June.