THE Derry Clipper has just missed out on winning the New York to Derry leg of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
In a nail-biting finish, the overall race leader LMAX Exchange came from behind to pip David Smith and his crew at the finish line.
LMAX Exchange came in first at the mouth of Lough Foyle at the end of the 3,200-plus trans-Atlantic journey.
With two legs remaining in the round the world challenge, it means LMAX Exchange – with six leg wins under its belt – will extend its lead in the overall standings over the second-placed Derry crew.
The lead boats will leave Greencastle at the mouth of Lough Foyle later today.
They are due to arrive at the pontoon at the Foyle Marina next to Derry City and Strabane District Council’s offices this evening at 5.00 pm where a heroes welcome awaits the crews.
Dan Smith, the Derry Clipper skipper, described the last 12 hours of racing alongside rival LMAX Exchange as “frustrating and extremely challenging”.
“Last night we raced in winds as low as 1 knot,” said Dan.
“This made racing difficult in currents that were running up to 4 knots at times.
“Positions between us and LMAX Exchange changed throughout the night, until the wind finally filled in closer to the shore and it managed to squeeze a 2 mile advantage.”
But LMAX Exchange finally out run the Derry Clipper and made it home first.
Tags: