Race report 20:Latvian yacht Spaniel takes Line Honours

It’s been an exciting night of racing which has resulted in nine vessels crossing the finish line. Spaniel (Latvia) took line honours ahead of her rival Tomidi (Belgium) who had been closing in with better boat speed in the final stages; but it was not quite enough and Spaniel finished just 31 minutes ahead.

In Class A, Mir (Russia) continues to close in on Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) who is fighting hard to keep her lead position. This is likely to end up as a tacking duel more akin to America Cup sailing as these two legendary square-riggers close in on the finish line.

Johann Smidt (Germany) and Maybe (UK) are locked into a duel too as they fight for second place in Class B behind a very strong performance from Helena (Finland) who finished at 02.20 this morning.

As the vessels all cross the finish lining over the coming days, they will be heading on to Szczecin, Poland -the final port for The Tall Ships Races 2013.  Szczecin last hosted the Tall Ships in 2007 and there is no doubt that the grande finale is going to be a spectacular event.

The placings at 05:00 UTC/GMT were:

Class A

1st   Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway)

2nd  Tre Kronor af Stockholm (Sweden)

3rd  Kruzenshtern (Russia)

Class B

1st Liv (Norway)

2nd Maybe (UK)

3rd Helena (Finland)

Class C

1st Admiral Dickman (Poland)

2nd Sharki (Poland)

3rd Black Diamond of Durham (UK)

Class D

1st Akela (Russia)

2nd Tomidi (Belgium)

3rd Lietuva (Lithuania)

– ends –

Editor’ notes:

What is sail training?

Sail Training is an adventure activity, which includes far more than sailing instruction. Participants are required to confront demanding challenges, both physical and emotional. It is an activity that inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility. It promotes an acceptance of others, whatever their social or cultural backgrounds, and develops a willingness to take controlled risks. Those who undertake Sail Training on Tall Ships generally find it a positive life-changing experience.

About Sail Training International (STI)

STI is the international voice of Sail Training, a registered charity (not-for-profit organisation), which has worldwide membership and activities. Its purpose is the development and education of young people through the Sail Training experience, regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background. It organises the annual Tall Ship Races and other international Tall Ship sailing events.  STI members are 29 national Sail Training organisations around the world and STI’ head office is in Gosport, Hampshire, UK.

The organisation was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize 2007 for its work in promoting international understanding and friendship.

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