Mercedes Tech
(inducted 2007)

In 2003, I completed the Fastnet Race, as well as multiple qualifying races with the Challenge Business Program on their custom 70 foot yachts.

Though the 2003 Fastnet was not as extreme in conditions as the famous race in '79, we did experience a variety of challenging conditions, from anchoring for long stretches and fending off boats that we passed that were under sail to strong winds in the final 12 hours of the race, requiring all hands on deck. 

Nevertheless the most memorable part was out in the open sea beyond England as we first spotted the light on the Fastnet rock late at night, knowing we were half way through the race.  We were beating hard upwind at the time with the only points of reference being the stars, in good 18-20 knot winds.   

My responsibilities on the team were extensive: Primary upwind helmsman, downwind spinnaker trimmer and watch captain.

Best, Mercedes Tech - March 2007

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