Merfyn Owen and Allen Clarke will be at the start of the Route du Rhum supporting among others Mike Hennessy on #54 Dragon, who’s fulfilling a long-held dream to compete in this race.
Also on hand is Andrew Thomson, Director of South African based builder Cape Racing Yachts. Their Owen Clarke designed Class 40 #149 Hydra is not in the race as she’s competing in the fully crewed RORC Atlantic Race leaving later in the month. However, Andrew will be able to discuss the details of #157, their latest boat which will be racing in Europe next year. The yacht has the four winch cockpit option, single spreader Axxon mast, with sails, deck layout and systems specified in conjunction with Jorg Riechers. Final fit out is scheduled to take place in France early next year.
The build slot for boat number three is still available, with launch and delivery into Europe for next season still possible. Cost of the standard boat, landed in Europe (excluding sails, electronics and VAT) is Euro 375,000.