For those fans of around the world races who think racing around the globe in 60 foot boats has become a bit too easy, there is the Around in Ten Race. This contest will pit solo sailors aboard 10-foot boats against each other. So far there are four declared entrants from the U.S. and Europe for this race which is slated to start on January 10, 2009. One of the designs is seen at left in the building process.
From the press release: The Race: Around In Ten starts in the Bahamas on the 10th January 2009 and will take 18 months to two years to complete, depending on progress.
The Route: The racers can take any route they wish. The only compulsory stops being Panama, Darwin and Cape Town, finishing back in the Bahamas.
The Prize: To be the first to beat Serge Testa’s 1987 record in a 12-ft boat
The Regulations: Rules are created by a poll of the racers after public debate on the race website’s forum http://www.aroundinten.com/forum/. Members of the public regularly voice opinion and influence the decisions. There are currently 10 simple rules which can be seen on the site. Members of the public are encouraged to communicate directly with the racers on this forum
The Tactics: Racers’ tactics may differ; the choice is to carry large stores which would slow the boat down, or to make multiple stops. No matter which approach, the pressure will be on to get to Cape Town before the cyclone season starts in late October.
The progress reports: The race will be accompanied (as far as it is possible) by a support boat. This will enable regular feeds from mid-ocean and the shore to be posted on the website, with pictures, video and commentary.
The Racers: Kristofer J. “Harley” Harlson, Harry Van Soolen, Gilbert from Antwerp, Matt Layden AKA “The Wizard”
