It was the slowest Bermuda race in history, with boats becalmed multiple times. A race that normally lasts three days stretched on to four… and then five… and some boats are still out there today. You might assume that would make it a relaxed affair, but in fact it was a physical and psychological marathon for those boats who were determined to win.
And win we did. Dorade came in first in her division in IRC, second in her division in ORR. Matching Rod and Olin’s best Bermuda showing from the 1930s. And the credit for that wins goes to Matt, for his leadership and vision, and to an extraordinarily skilled and dedicated crew who have sailed aboard Dorade many times: Matt Wachowicz, Kevin Miller, Jamie Hilton, and Paul Foley, as well as the new additions to the family, Dave Young and Tim Harris. And of course, the team that helped prep the boat and the program for this especially trying race: Eric Chowanski, Tim Cope, and Nick Bellico, the IYRS Nipper.
An especially big thank you to our boat captain, Hannah Jenner, who had to watch from afar because of the restrictions on the number of pros on the boat in this particular race. I know she would much rather have been on board, and frankly I think the entire team feels the same.
Up next: Corsica, Cannes, and St Tropez!
Standing, from left to right:
1. Matt Wachowicz
2. Matt Brooks
3. Kevin Miller
4. David Young
Sitting, front left to right:
5. Jamie Hilton with Sparky the dog
6. Tim Harris
7. Paul Foley