The Fleet Is In! Big Ben Finishes
by Richard Ballantyne, July 25th, 2012
The 2012 Vic Maui Fleet have all arrived safely in Lahaina.
Jim McLauchlan's Big Ben, a Beneteau Oceanis 50 skippered by Tony Roberts and hailing out of the Oak Bay Sailing Association in Victoria, arrived tonight with an elapsed time of 20 days and 10 hours.
Right at the start, Big Ben had to deal with adversity when Jim McLauchlan, the owner and skipper, had medical issues and remained behind on doctor's orders. Tony Roberts took over as Skipper and the crew pushed onward to complete their adventure, all part of building knowledge of open-ocean sailing in preparation for future voyages. Despite difficulties with a depleted sail inventory, electric systems, and steering. the team perservered and received a warm welcome in Lahaina; all talking of the fun and adventure - exactly the motto of the race - Challenge, Adventure, Teamwork.
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Lurline (2022)
Type: Tripp 47Skipper: Gib Black
Port: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Blog: 1 articles posted
"Beginning with the first running of the Vic-Maui Race in 1965, I have followed the previous participants routing, finishes and associated weather components with great interest and intrigue. A few of my friends have competed and completed the race and all speak of the challenging yet gratifying conditions, tactics and not least, the great send off in beautiful Victoria B.C. The cold aspects of the race have previously kept me from entering the race at bay, having been raised in Hawaii and spending so much time there in the warm ethos. However, it is finally time to lean forward and enter the 2022 race and cast aside any trepidation. In the anticipation of finally participating in the 2022 race, this coming December and Christmas, Santa promises to bring me my first pair of sailing boots!
I believe my boat, a Tripp 47, is very competitive and embodies the synergy and nucleus of a formidable and capable crew. The crew have sailed thousands of ocean and inland racing miles and have earned my admiration and respect. The boat crews numerous completed Transpacs, PacCups and other offshore races that they have sailed with me on, is a testament to their determination and competitive nature. They deserve this new opportunity for an enhanced northern latitude to southern latitude race, and to experience the humbleness and satisfaction that this race has the potential to exude. My crew and myself are all looking forward with eager anticipation to joining our Canadian pals and accompanying esprit de corps, for the 2022 Vic-Maui Race.
Aloha,
Gib"
