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The Christian Radich sets sail for the Caribbean

The “Christian Radich”, a Norwegian tall ship built in 1937, departed Las Palmas in the Canary Islands off the West Coast of Africa last week as part of the annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), for the Caribbean. It is one of a number of sailing vessels in the rally which name Oslo as a home port.

In 1939, the ship sailed the Atlantic on a visit to the World Trade Fair, which was on show in New York. This is when the ship first became famous.

Maspalomas lighthouse by Pablo Avanzini

After her return to Norway in 1939, she became part of the Norwegian Navy. Before the Second World War was finally over, the Christian Radich was bombed and sunk in the port of Flensburg. After the war, she was not left in her watery grave, but was salvaged and towed to the city of Kiel and a minesweeper was used to protect her. In 1947, she was completely restored.

In 2005, the Christian Radich was given the status as a training ship.
There are now 30 crew members fully employed running the tall ship.

The name Christian Radich originates from Simeon Christian Radich, who managed a number of sawmills in Norway as a very successful business person.

During 1985, an 8 year old from Chile sent a letter to Kjell Thorsen, then the captain of the tall ship, and informed him that his name was also Christian Radich. He was given a free visit to Oslo in 1987 to take part in the 50th anniversary of the tall ship.

The ship is certainly the oldest and most magnificent of the sailing ships seen under sail off Las Palmas in preparation for the Atlantic crossing to the Caribbean.

In 2010, the Christian Radich won the Tall Ships Race, but last transited the Atlantic Ocean in 2001. On this year’s crossing she will have 90 passengers onboard, including 15 who work as fulltime crew. A large number of crew is essential to assist in managing the 1,360 square metres of sail area and all 27 sails. If all of the 200 ropes on board were laid out in a long line, the length would reach an incredible 9 kilometres and, not surprisingly, each one has its own name.

The ship leaves an amazing history in its wake as a sail training ship. From 1999, the ship has been involved in chartering, sightseeing tours, summertime visits to overseas ports, with trainees who pay while on board.

The Christian Radich reached fame after its appearance in the movie “Windjammer” in 1957 and its regular appearance in the series shown on BBC TV called “The Onedin Line”. This was in the 1970s and featured as a ship owned by James Onedin, who was one of the world’s largest shipping magnates in the 1800s involved in global trade following the industrialisation of Europe.

December 4, 2012 | admin

Tall Ships

Shabab Oman wins prestigious Friendship Trophy

The Omani ship Shabab Oman won the prestigious Sail Training International Friendship Trophy today at the final prize giving for The Tall Ships’ Races. The Queen’s Commissioner, Harry Borghouds, together with Knut Western, the Chairman of The Tall Ships’ Races 2008, presented the awards. The prize-giving followed a typically noisy and colourful crew parade through the streets of Den Helder, the final port in this year’s race series. Following the presenting of all the trophies for the winners of the races and other awards, the announcement was made that Shabab Oman won the Friendship Trophy.

Close Up of Ropes and Pulleys of a Ta…

Todd Gipstein

A huge cheer went up from all the crew members present showing that the win was a popular one with the fleet. The trophy epitomises the objective of the races and is awarded to the vessel which, in the opinion of the entire race fleet, has done the most to help further international understanding and friendship during the races. The Omanis are always popular competitiors in the races and are forever smiling and friendly.

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Apart from the Friendship Trophy, a number of other prizes were awarded, these started with the winners of Race Two of The Tall Ships’ Races from Bergen to Den Helder. These are:

Class A on corrected time
1st Christian Radich (Norway)
2nd Sørlandet (Norway)
3rd Mir (Russia)

Class B on corrected time
1st Jolie Brise (UK)
2nd Moosk (UK)
3rd Morning Star of Revelation

Class C on corrected time
1st Akela (Russia)
2nd Black Diamond of Durham (UK)
3rd Gaudeamus (Poland)

Class D on corrected time
1st St Barbara V (UK)
2nd Rona II (UK)
3rd Thyra (Denmark)

The First vessel to cross the line (line honours)
Akela (Russia) with an elapsed time of 3 days, 23 hours 18 minutes and 24 seconds.

First vessel overall on corrected time:
Christian Radich (Norway) with a corrected time of 2 days, 16 hourrs, 56 minutes and 8 seconds.

The following special prizes for Race Two were donated by Sail Training International:

Youngest Captain: Magda Makowska of Gedania (Poland), aged 21 years, 6 months and 22 days.

Youngest Trainee: Moritz Henneka of Johann Smidt (Germany), aged 15 years and 11 days.

Vicki Scott Memorial Award presented to the captain of the ship with the greatest number of trainees on board: Clas Jagdum of Christian Radich who had 13 different nationalities on baord.

Honourable Company of Master Mariners, presented to a vessel who showed considerable seamanship in going to the assistance of Clyde Challenger in such a professional manner, awarded to Loyal (Norway)

Helmut Bastian bell, presented to the vessel with the highest percentage of young trainees: Zryw (Poland)

Crowther Memorial Shield, awarded Dr Simon Cunningham of Lord Nelson (UK), who assisted a crew member on Johann Smidt with a medical condition that resulted in an airlift to Newcastle Hospital.

Hans Reith Memorial Plate, presented to a vessel who underwent an act of extreme hardship, awarded to Clyde Challenger (UK)

Special prize for the vessel that travelled the furthest distance to take part in The Tall Ships’ Races: Cuauhtemoc (Mexico), who travelled 6,009 miles.

Sail Training International Communications prize, presented to the vessel which, in the opinion of the communications officers for Race Two had contributed most to the communications schedule, awarde to Lotos (Netherlands)

Cook Longest at Sea, presented to the cook who had to work for the longest time, awarded Clive Elsom of Stavros S Niarchos (UK)

The Torbay Cup, presented to a trainee for outstanding individual achievement and personal effort from Cuauhtemoc (Mexico), Arturo Morales Desachy who at just 21 went out of his way to assist other crew members, learnt other languages to help trainees from different vessels and even risked his own life to save a fellow crew member.

The Sail Training International Perpetual Trophies awarded for the Race series, were:

The Illingworth Trophy, awarded to the first vessel in Class D for the race series, Lietuva (Lithuania)

The Angela Cup, awarded to the first vessel in Class C for the race series, Black Diamond of Durham (UK)

The Florence Cup, awarded to the first vessel in Class B for the race series, Jolie Brise (UK)

The Cape Horn Trophy, awarded to the first vessel in Class A for the race series, Christian Radich (Norway)

The Antwerp Sponsors Trophy, awarded by the City, Port and Province of Antwerp to the organisation which significantly contributed to this year’s Tall Ships’ Races by arranging the cruise-in-company between Maløy and Bergen, awarded to the ports of Bergen and Maløy and presented to Charles Blalid and Helge Hjelle with special mention of Per Langhelle who was not present.

The final trophy awarded was the Friendship Trophy, after which the entire crew from Shabab Oman went up onto the stage and started to party straight away. For them this was better than winning an Olympic medal!

Race Two Final Results (pdf)

August 21, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Youngsters from Bermuda want to repeat their experience across the Atlantic

The experience of sailing on a Tall Ship has so inspired four youngsters from Bermuda that all of them would love to repeat the experience. Not only would they like to sail again on a Tall Ship but they’ve set their sights on taking part in the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge next year and crossing the Atlantic to sail into Bermuda.

“It would be so cool to sail into Bermuda on a Tall Ship and have all our families watching us,” said William Halliday, 17, one of four youngsters who sailed on Christian Radich from Bergen to Den Helder. William went on to say that he now had renewed respect for his ancestors who had no choice but to travel by ship to reach the new world and settle in Bermuda. “It puts it all into a new light and makes you realise what the great explorers had to ensure,” he said.

1972 Bermuda Race Newport Rhode Islan…

Catharine Hay, 25, said she had watched friends take part in the previous Atlantic race in 2000 and was disappointed that she couldn’t also sail. When the chance came up this year to take part in The Tall Ships’ Races she said she jumped at the chance. “I saw something on facebook first of all and immediately wanted to know more,” said Catherine who had absolutely no experience of sailing at all before boarding the ship. “It was amazing to have such an international experience and to work in a team with people from other countries,” Catherine said, “sometimes we had to get up just after we’d gone to bed so we could help tack. It was exhausing at times!”

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Christine Jack, 17, had heard about Christian Radich from a friend’s sister so when she saw an advert in the paper she was quick to apply. “We had to write a letter about why we wanted to take part and then were chosen from all the applicants, which was very exciting,” said Christine. “I got a bit seasick at the beginning but everyone was so kind and helpful and it disappeared after a day or two!”

Sarah Smith, 19, is the only one of the four that had ever sailed on a Tall Ship before having spent a term on Class Afloat, the Canadian School ship. “It was very different on board Christian Radich,” said Sarah, “so it didn’t really help me but I have fallen in love with setting sails and grab any opportunity to do more of it!”

Horseshoe Bay Beach Scene…

All of them said it only took a few days before they were getting the hang of the sails and the ropes and even managed to learn a bit of Norwegian. They all commented on the wonderful spirit that was on board, which they admit may have been helped by winning the race!

Their enthusiasm for sailing on a Tall Ship is so strong that any ships looking for crew to take part in the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge should get in touch with them quickly!

August 20, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Fleet start to arrive in Den Helder

The fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races started to arrive in Den Helder today with Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) and the provisional winner,Christian Radich (Norway), among the first. A number of the smaller Class C and D vessels also arrived into the small basin in front of the Naval Academy, including many of the provisional winners of their classes, which finished the race a few days ago.

Lord Nelson (UK), one of the vessels still out at sea, has taken over from the communications vessel and is recording the positions of the rest of the fleet as they make their way to Den Helder.

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All the vessels are expected to be in Den Helder by midday tomorrow, 20 August, for the start of the final four days of festivities. The final prize giving will take place on Thursday 21 August when the Sail Training International Friendship Trophy will be awarded as well as a number of other trophies.

Fishing Fleet, Den Helder, Holland

I Vanderharst

August 19, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Team South Africa loved the spirit and friendship on Christian Radich

Four young people from Cape Town, South Africa, have just enjoyed an experience they say they will never forget. Valentino Scholtz, 17, Sakhekile Qoyi, 18, Shafeeqah Salie, 25 and Claire Bouah, 25, all earned the chance to sail on Christian Radich thanks to the South African Sail-Training for Life-Skills Development Association (SASLA). SASLA promotes and assists the provision of opportunities for training under sail to youth and adults to foster the development of sustainable life skills, constructive citizenship and the art of seamanship.

The four joined the ship in Bergen knowing nothing about tall ships and only a little about sailing dinghies. They all expressed the experience as having been ‘amazing’ and said, without hesitation, that they would love to do it again as it had taught them so much about themselves and other cultures. “It also made us realise how proud we are of our own country, which was something I hadn’t expected,” said Shafeeqah.

Top Sails

Sakhekile, who had wanted to take part in Team SA’s participation in The Tall Ships’ Races last year but had been unable to obtain a visa in time, said the experience had presented him with many challenges which had made him think. “It is only when you are encountering challenges that you find ways to tackle them and that means you become more open minded. It was very interesting to realise how much more you can achieve,” said Sakhekile.

Velsheda

Philip Plisson

Shafeeqah said she loved the great spirit that was on board. “It was a bit like being part of the United Nations as we had so many nationalities on board. We teased each other about their accents, words they used, languages and habits, but we were all a team,” she said. “It was so nice to be part of something bigger and is much better than taking a holiday lying on a beach or something. It was great to see a different reality, to see how different life could be and how South Africa could become. It has given us all a new perspective on life and also an appreciation of our own country.” Shafeeqah has always been active and particularly keen on challenging herself but in the past this has been largely limited to mountaineering. “This has opened up something more for me and I really enjoyed the experience.”

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Valentino earned himself the nickname of ‘mast-monkey’ as he spent so much time climbing to the top of the mast. “I loved it when it was rough and the mast swayed from side to side, the view from up there was amazing!” Valentino, who also applied to take part last year and was delighted to be in the first team this year, wants to work in tourism and feels the experience will be invaluable to him.

All of them agreed that having the chance to exchange ideas with Europeans of their own age was invaluable. “The most interesting thing that I discovered was that actually we have more in common with Europeans than I thought,” said Shafeeqah. “We could exchange ideas and through that we realised there are a lot of misconceptions about South Africa that we could alter.”

Claire Bouah currently works as a debt collector and found the experience of sailing on Christian Radich has really opened her eyes to the world. “I feel more comfortable on this ship than I do in an office back home and the experience has made me realise that I would like to explore the possibility of making a career out of sailing,” said Claire. “I’ve no idea how I could go about doing that, but a huge door has opened in front of me and I’m really excited about it. ” Claire, who also speaks German said that she is proud of being able to cross borders and break barriers. “We were already winners before we boarded the ship!”

The four say they will be sad to leave Christian Radich and hope to come back and repeat the experience one day. They also hope that one day South Africa will have a Tall Ship of their own. “We have all visited the Tall Ships that have visited Cape Town and been in awe of them, so to have this experience to sail on board was a dream come true,” said Sakhekile, who clearly spoke for them all. They leave for South Africa on Saturday but their memories will be with them for a lot longer and no doubt their story will inspire more to follow in their footsteps.

Christian Radich is the provisional winner of the race overall on corrected time.
Provisional Results

August 19, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 12: Race time limit reached – provisional results available

The race time limit was reached today at 1200 hrs GMT for Class A, 1230 hrs for Class B, 1245 hrs for Class C and 1300 hrs for Class D, which means all vessels are deemed to have finished regardless of whether they have crossed the finish line or not.

Final results will not be confirmed until all the vessels have arrived in Den Helder and handed in their race declaration forms, but the provisional results show that Christian Radich (Norway) is the winner overall on corrected time, with Jolie Brise (UK) in second place and Sørlandet (Norway) in third.
In the Classes on corrected time, behind Christian Radich and Sørlandet in Class A is Mir (Russia). In Class B, Jolie Brise (UK) is the winner with Moosk (UK) in second place and Morning Star of Revelation (UK) in third. Akela (Russia) is the provisional winner of Class C, with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second place and Gaudeamus (Poland) in third. St Barbara V (UK) is in first place in Class D, with Rona II (UK) in second and Thyra (Denmark) in third.

The full list of provisional results can be seen in the Results

All the vessels are now making their way to Den Helder for the final four days of festivities which start on Wednesday 20 August. A number have already arrived in the port where they have been warmly welcomed.

August 18, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 11: Race time limit brought forward to assist back markers

The race time limit has been brought forward to 1200 hrs GMT today (for Class A), 1230 hrs (Class B), 1245 hrs (Class C) and 1300 hrs (Class D) in order to allow sufficient time for the back markers to make it to Den Helder in time for the final four days of festivities which start on 20 August.

Just 19 vessels remain on the course with all the others having crossed the finish line and either making their way to Den Helder or stopping off at other ports en route.

Christian Radich (Norway) looks set to hold on to her lead overall on corrected time with Jolie Brise (UK), the Class B vessel, coming in second and Sørlandet (Norway) in third. Statsraad Lehmkuhl, the third Norwegian ship, retired.

In Class B behind Jolie Brise is Moosk (UK) with Morning Star of Revelation (UK) remaining in third place. Akela (Russia) is in first place in Class C with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Guadeamus (Poland) in third. St Barbara V (UK) is the provisional winner of Class D with Rona II (UK) coming in second and Thyra (Denmark) in third, finally overcoming her sister vessel Svanen.

These results will remain provisional until the race time limit has been reached and the ‘finish at sea’ formula has been applied to all the vessels yet to cross the finish line. All vessels then have to complete and hand in their Race Declaration Forms before the results can be made final.

Winds are forecast to increase slightly and veer to the south west.

The vessels that have now crossed the finish line are: Akela, Antwerp Flyer, Black Diamond of Durham, Christian Radich, Cisne Branco, Cuauhtemoc, Eendracht, Esprit, Gaudeamus, John Laing, Jolie Brise, Mir, Rona II, Sørlandet, Spaniel, St Barbara V, Svanen, Thermopylae Clipper, Thyra, Urania and Zryw. Clyde Challenger is due into Den Helder later this morning.

August 18, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 10: More vessels cross finish line

A total of 15 vessels have now crossed the finish line with more expected overnight. Overall on corrected time, (Norway) remains in first place with Jolie Brise (UK) in second and now Sørlandet (Norway) in third. In Class A on corrected time, Christian Radich leads with Sørlandet in second place and Mir (Russia) in third. However, as there are more vessels yet to finish, this positions may still change.

In Class B on corrected time, the positions remain unchanged from this morning with Jolie Brise in first place, Moosk (UK) in second and Morning Star of Revelation (UK) in third for an all UK line up. In Class C, Akela (Russia) is in first place, Antwerp Flyer (Belgium) in second and Guadeamus (Poland) in third. St Barbara V II (UK) is in the lead in Class D with Rona II (UK) in second place and Thyra (Denmark) in third.

The vessels that have now crossed the finish line are: Akela, Antwerp Flyer, Christian Radich, Cuauhtemoc, Esprit, John Laing, Mir, Rona II, Spaniel, St Barbara V, Svanen, Thermopylae Clipper, Thyra and Urania. A number of these have gone direct to Den Helder while others will visit other ports before arriving in Den Helder on 20 August.

For the vessels in the more northerly part of the course winds are from the south east and 11-22 knots, decreasing to 6-15 knots. For those further south and approaching the finish line, winds are south south west, 14-20 knots, increasing to 16-32 knots.

August 17, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 9: Leaders hold steady as Akela takes line honours

The leaders in this second race of the series have remained unchanged overnight, while a number of vessels have crossed the finish line, with Akela (Russia) taking line honours.

Christian Radich (Norway) remains in the lead overall on corrected time with Jolie Brise, the Class B vessel, in second place overall and Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) in third. In Class A on corrected time, Christian Radich and Statsraad Lehmkuhl are followed by the third Norwegian ship Sørlandet. In Class B, behind Jolie Brise is Moosk (UK) with Morning Star of Revelation (UK) in third. In Class C, Akela remains in first place with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Gaudeamus (Poland) in third. St Barbara V (UK) still leads Class D, with Rona II (UK) in second and Thyra (Denmark) in third.

Overnight a number of vessels crossed the finish line. The first across at just after 1900 hours GMT, was Akela (Russia). Others that followed later that evening or early this morning are: Mir (Russia), Thermopylae Clipper (UK), John Laing (UK), Esprit (Germany), Antwerp Flyer (Belgium), Rona II (UK), Thyra (Denmark), Svanane (Denmark) and Lietuva (Lithuania).

The weather forecast is for a continuation of south easterly winds of between 20 – 29 knots, decreasing to 15 – 22 knots for the next 24 hours. Over the next 48 hour period, winds will veer south south west 12 -17 knots, increasing to 18 – 26 knots, with isolated showers.

Late last night Clyde Challenger (UK) issued a mayday call as they were taking on water. All 13 crew members were taken off safe and well and the vessel is now on tow towards Den Helder. For the more details, click here.

August 17, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 8: Christian Radich hangs on to lead but southerly winds slow pace

Christian Radich (Norway) is holding on to her lead overall on corrected time, but has been overtaken on the water by a number of the smaller vessels favoured by the southerly winds. Behind her overall is now the Class B Jolie Brise (UK), clearly intent on taking a second title, with Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) in third place.

Behind Christian Radich and Statsraad Lehmkuhl in Class A on corrected time is the Brazilian Cisne Branco. Behind Jolie Brise in Class B on corrected time is Moosk (UK) with Morning Star of Revelation (UK) in third. Class C is now being led by Akela (Russia) with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Gaudeamus (Poland) in third. St Barbara V (UK) remains in the lead in Class D with Rona II (UK) still in second but the third place now taken by Thyra (Denmark), in her own battle with fellow Danish Naval vessel Svanen.
Photo: Moosk (UK).

On the water Akela is now in the lead with just 10 miles to go to cross the finish line which she will do within the next few hours. Esprit (Germany) and Rona II are also doing well and expected to cross the finish line tonight. The closest Class A vessel to the finish line is Mir (Russia) with just over 35 miles to go.

The southerly winds have helped the yachts to make better progress than the square rigged ships and this is forecast to continue with south easterly winds of 11-21 knots, increasing to 27 knots at times. The further outlook is for the wind to come round to south south west, which will should help increase the average speed of the flee

August 16, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 7: Weather starts to favour smaller vessels as winds set to increase

The lighter winds have begun to benefit the smaller vessels with the Class C vessel Esprit (Germany) now in the lead on the water. Christian Radich (Norway) and Mir (Russia) are however close behind as are the yachts Akela (Russia), Antwerp Flyer (Belgium) and Rona II (UK) leaving the race for line honours still wide open.

Overall on corrected time Christian Radich remains in the lead with Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) in second place and the Class B vessel, and winner of Race One, Jolie Brise (UK) now in third place. In Class A Sorlandet has moved up to third place on corrected time.

Behind Jolie Brise in Class B on corrected time is Moosk (UK) with Morning Star of Revelation (UK) now up into third place. Black Diamond of Durham (UK) is back in the lead in Class C with Akela in second and Gaudeamus (Poland) in third. St Barbara V (UK) has taken back the lead in Class D with Rona II (UK) in second and Svanen (Denmark) back up into third place.

Disappointing news for Assarain II (UK), who had been in the lead in their class, as their forestay broke overnight which has meant she has had to retire from the race and is making her own way to Den Helder. There are some very unhappy Captains’ Daughters on board!

The winds have lessened but are due to increase, still from the south east but from 12-17 knots to between 24 and 35 knots. Tomorrow winds will remain in the south east but increase to 21-41 knots before veering south south west and decreasing 14-20 knots. Given the conditions, a number of vessels will probably cross the finish line over the weekend.

August 16, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 6: Three vessels fight for the lead as wind turns south

Christian Radich (Norway) is holding onto her lead overall on corrected time although Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) is making a strong come back attack and closing the gap between them. In third place overall and in Class A is the Brazilian Cisne Branco which has been keeping pace with the leaders since the beginning of the race on Tuesday.

In Class B Trinovante (UK) is still in the lead and proving hard to beat. Moosk (UK) is now up in second place and chasing hard with Jens Krogh (Denmark) doing well in third. The Class C battle continues with Akela (Russia) now leading with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Gaudeamus (Poland) back in third although any of these could take the lead at any time. Class D is also a battle with Assarain II (the Captains’ Daughters)(UK) now in the lead and a real threat to the others. St Barbara V (UK) is in second and Rona II (UK) back in third.

Assarain II

Photo: Assarain II

On the water Mir (Russia) continues to dominate although Christian Radich is now almost level and her captain is almost certainly keen to take the lead. Some of the smaller yachts are making good headway in the variable winds.

The forecast is for the winds to become lighter within the next 48 hours and then change to south south west 15-21 knots in the more southerly area where the leaders are now, while the back markers will continue to experience south easterly 11-16 knots of wind.

August 15, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 5: Christian Radich holds onto her lead as winds lessen

The winds have decreased in strength and are variable which has slowed the progress of the fleet considerably. The forecast is however for the winds to increase in strength but go to the south east over the next couple of days. Despite the lessening winds, Christian Radich (Norway) has held onto her lead overall on corrected time with Cisne Branco (Brazil) in second and Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) back up into third place.

Class B is still being led by Trinovante (UK) on corrected time with Jens Krogh (Denmark) up into second place and Moosk (UK) dropping back to third. The battle for Classes C and D continue apace. Gaudeamus (Poland) has taken back the lead in Class C on corrected time with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Akela (Russia) third. Rona II (UK) has held onto her lead in Class D on corrected time with Assarain II (the Captains’ Daughters)(UK) remaining in close contention in second and Thyra (Denmark) in third.

Photo: Christian Radich (Norway)

Christian Radich (Norway)

On the water Mir (Russia) still leads with Christian Radich off to the east slightly. Cisne Branco and Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) are catching up behind them. The changing wind conditions should be more favourable to the yachts and the battle on the water between Rona II, Antwerp Flyer (Belgium), Esprit (Germany) and Thyra (Denmark) is becoming fierce with all of them racing to get ahead of the others. Strategically Thyra could be in a better position as she has gone east of the route which could give her an advantage with the forecast wind direction.

August 15, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 4: The competition hots up as the fleet turns south

The competition is beginning to heat up as the vessels pass the first waypoint and head south. The wind has also veered to a more southerly direction which is slowing the square rigged ships and meaning more tactics will come into play. Christian Radich (Norway) has now taken up the lead overall on corrected time as well as in Class A. Behind her is Alexander von Humboldt (Germany) with Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) now in third.

The competition for Class B is also hotting up with Trinovante (UK) going well and now in the lead on corrected time. Moosk (UK) is also on the move and up into second place with Jens Krogh (Denmark) in third.

Photo: Cisne Branco (Brazil)

The battle for Class C continues with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) now in the lead with Gaudeamus (Poland) in second and Akela (Russia) third. Class D is also going to be another UK battle with Rona II (UK) taking up the lead with Assarain II (the Captains’ Daughters)(UK) in second and St Barbara V (UK) in third. All these positions are sure to keep changing as the race progresses.

On the water Mir (Russia) continues to lead with Cisne Branco (Brazil) keeping pace and Christian Radich, Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) and Statsraad Lehmkuhl all close behind.

Because of the change in direction and speed of the wind, the estimated times of arrival listed for each of the vessels is likely to be extended as the race progresses.

August 14, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 3: Statsraad Lehmkuhl remains in the lead overall on corrected time

The Class A ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) remains in the lead overall on corrected time with Christian Radich (Norway) close behind in second and Cisne Branco (Brazil) in third. These three look set to battle it out between them for the honour of winning the race and their class.

Statsraad Lehmkuhl remains in the lead overall on corrected time

Tecla (Netherlands) remains in the lead of Class B with Trinovante (UK) in second and now Far Barcelona (Spain) in third. Class C remains unchanged with Guadeamus (Poland) in the lead, Akela (Russia) in second and John Laing (UK) in third. The battle for Class D continues with St Barbara V and Rona II (UK) still in second and now Svanen (Denmark) back in third place, pushing rival and fellow Danish Naval vessel Thyra back into fourth – this is another battle that looks set to continue.
On the water a number have now rounded the first waypoint ten miles off Aberdeen and are now heading back down the North Sea towards Den Helder. Mir (Russia) remains in the lead with Cisne Branco now in second place and Statsraad Lehmkuhl in third. Others around the waypoint are Christian Radich, Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) , Eendracht (Netherlands) and Esprit (Germany)

The fleet are continuing to enjoy favourable north westerly winds of 12-18 knots which are set to continue for the rest of today. Tomorrow the winds are forecast to go round to east/south east and lessen slightly to 10-14 knots which will slow some of the square rigged ships down a bit.

The communications vessel, the Norwegian Coastguard Andenes was forced to be redeployed overnight to attend to some urgent coastguard duties, but Lord Nelson stepped in to take over the morning communication schedule, which delayed matters a little but hopefully things will be back to normal later today.

August 14, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 2: A battle between two Norwegian rivals hots up

At the 1700 GMT position report, Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) was holding on to her lead overall on corrected time with her Norwegian rival Christian Radich still hot on her heels in second place. In third is now Cisne Branco (Brazil).

A battle between two Norwegian rivals hots up

In Class B the lead on corrected time has now been taken up by Tecla (Netherlands) with Trinovante (UK) now in second place and Moosk (UK) in third. The Class C leader is Gaudeamus (Poland) with Akela (Russia) in second and always a threat to the lead, and John Laing (UK) in third. Class D is another UK battle with St Barbara V (UK) in the lead with Rona II close behind. Behind them is now Thyra (Denmark) with her fellow Danish Navy vessel Svanen close behind them.
On the water Mir (Russia) continues to dominate the fleet with Cisne Branco also doing extremely well, while close behind her is Christian Radich with Statsraad Lehmkuhl still slightly north but closing the gap.

Winds have continued in a northerly to north-westerly direction 20 – 25 Knots which means the fleet have all been making good progress. However the forecast is for the winds to back from tomorrow and decrease slightly so progress may slow.

August 13, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 1: Statsraad Lehmkuhl takes an early lead

The Norwegian Class A ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl has taken an early lead on corrected time in the second race of The Tall Ships’ Races 2008. At the 0600 GMT position report, she was in the lead both in her class and overall with Norwegian rival Christian Radich in second place and Morgenster (Netherlands) in third.

Jolie Brise sails across the start line in the setting sun.

Photo: Jolie Brise sails across the start line in the setting sun.

The first race winner Jolie Brise (UK) is also doing well and leading Class B as well as lying third overall on corrected time. Class C is being led by Gaudeamus (Poland) with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Akela (Russia) in third. Assarain II (the Captains’ Daughters from the UK) is looking to repeat her first race win and is leading Class D. Behind her is St Barbara V (UK) looking to give her a good run for her money with Svanen, one of the two Danish Naval vessel, lying in third.

The helpful northerly winds that finally helped the fleet across the start line has remained and increased slightly to between 13 and 20 knots. Many of the fleet may experience isolated showers but it for most it should become fair. These winds look to continue for the next 72 hours which will help the fleet across the North Sea to the waypoint some ten miles off Aberdeen.

August 13, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 14: Provisional Results in – Jolie Brise wins overall on corrected time

With just a few ships left to arrive in Maløy, and the final time limit for the race now passed, the provisional results are available. It should be noted that these will remain provisional until all Race Declaration Forms have been received from the ships. The final results will be announced on Friday 1 August at midday.

Jolie Brise (UK) the Class B vessel is provisional winner, on corrected time, of the first leg of The Tall Ships’ Races 2008. In second place is Stina Mari (Norway), also Class B, with the Class A Christian Radich (Norway) in third place.

In the Classes on corrected time, Christian Radich is the winner of Class A, with Mir (Russia) in second and Dar Mlodziezy (Poland) in third. Behind Jolie Brise and Stina Mari in Class B is Etoile (France). Provisional winners of Class C are Alba Explorer (UK) with Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Spaniel (Latvia) in third. Winner of Class D is Assarain II (UK) with Lietuva (Lithuania) second and St Barbara V (UK) third.

Jolie Brise (UK) the overall winner of the first leg of The Tall Ships' Races.

Photo: Jolie Brise (UK) the overall winner of the first leg of The Tall Ships’ Races.

The majority of the fleet are now in Maløy with the remaining few due to arrive today. Many of the ships have corporate hospitality arranged for the coming days either in port or on day sails. The entertainment village is in the process of being put up with a magnificent stage built in the town square and lines of white tents which will be offering food, drinks and merchandise for sale. The entire town is getting involved in the event, with all the shop keepers dressed in special Tall Ships’ Races outfits and displaying Tall Ships’ Races items in their windows.

The first official day of the event in Maløy is tomorrow when the crew parade will take place through the town followed by what promises to be a very grand prize giving. Other events scheduled for the four days includes a special captains dinner, the venue for which has been kept secret, and the English rock band Status Quo, who are sure to rock the ships on Sunday evening.

July 31, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 13: Vessels continue to cross the line as Maløy prepares for the festivities

More vessels in The Tall Ships’ Races continued to cross the finish line overnight making small amendments to the provisional results. In the lead on corrected time overall remains Jolie Brise (UK) with Stina Mari (Norway) in second place and Christian Radich (Norway) in third. In Class A on corrected time Christian Radich is in first place with Mir (Russia) in second and Alexander von Humboldt (Germany) back up into third place. However Alex has not yet finished the race so this may change again.

In Class B on corrected time, behind Jolie Brise and Stina Mari is now Constantia (Sweden) although again, she has not yet finished the race so this placing may again change. In Class C on corrected time, positions remain unchanged with Alba Explorer (UK) in first place, Black Diamond of Durham (UK) in second and Spaniel (Latvia) in third. Class D is also unchanged with Assarain II (UK) in first place, Lietuva (Lithuania) in second and St Barbara V (UK) in third.

The vessels are now pouring into Maløy in beautiful bright and sunny weather. The smallest town ever to host The Tall Ships’ Races is gearing itself up for it’s busiest week ever with thousands of people expected to visit the town over the coming days. Almost all the people who live in the town are involved in some way and cruise ships have been brought in to cater for the expected visitors.

July 30, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 12: Class Positions continue to change as vessels finish

Vessels have continued to cross the finish line throughout the day, and with these new finishers the class positions have altered slightly. This may continue to happen until all the vessels have crossed the finish line.

Overall on corrected time the leading three positions remain unchanged with Jolie Brise (UK) in first place, Stina Mari (Norway) in second and Christian Radich (Norway) in third. In Class A on corrected time Christian Radich is still in first place, with Mir (Russia) in second and now Dar Mlodziezy (Poland) moving up to third position. Behind Jolie Brise and Stina Mari in Class B on corrected time is now Etoile (France).

Classes C and D on corrected time remain unchanged from earlier stated positions as the majority of these vessels have crossed the finish line.

Winds remain frustratingly light off the Norwegian coast meaning it is taking time for the final vessels to get across the finish line. As a result the Race Committee have decided to bring forward the race time limit to tomorrow, Wednesday 30 July, 1200 GMT for Class A vessels, 1230 for Class B, 1245 for Class C and 1300 for Class D. This will time for the remaining vessels to start their motors and make better time to port without jeaopardising their racing positions due to the Sail Training International ‘Finish at Sea’ formula.

The vessels that have finished have received a warm welcome with the Liaison Officer system springing into action to ensure the vessels have full facilities operational. The captains have reported that they enjoyed the race which had certain tactical elements to it which added interest.

July 29, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships

Race Update 11: Finishers arrive in Maløy to warm welcome

More vessels in The Tall Ships’ Races finished overnight and arrived in Maløy to a warm welcome with their national anthems played and flags raised. The small fishing town of Maløy is about to be doubled in size with the arrival of the fleet and everyone is involved in some way or other. Two cruise ships have been brought in to cater for the numbers of people expected, as the one hotel with its 48 rooms would not be able to cope!

Overall on corrected time Jolie Brise (UK) is in first place with Stina Mari (Norway) in second and Christian Radich (Norway) in third. Behind Christian Radich in Class A is Mir (Russia) with Alexander von Humboldt (Germany) in third. However, there are a number of other Class A vessels yet to cross the finish line so this may change.

Stina Mari

Photo: Stina Mari

Class B remains unchanged from last night with the first three being, Jolie Brise, Stina Mari and Far Barcelona (Spain). Classes C and D are also unchanged as all vessels have now crossed the finish line.

A total of 23 vessels have now crossed the finish line with another dozen or so frustratingly waiting just off the coast for some wind to help them across the line.

Lord Nelson and Pelican of London (UK) are the back markers, still some way back north of the Shetland Isles. Other vessels making their way across the North Sea are Moosk (UK) and Spirit of Fairbridge (UK). However with the race time limit not up until Thursday 31 July, they should have sufficient time to make progress. A number of vessels have retired and are making their way to Maløy under power. These are: Jens Krogh (Denmark), Leader (UK), Roald Amundsen (Germany), Svanhild (Norway) and Williwaw (Belgium). Hebe III (Czech Republic) was also forced to retire after being dismasted and has made her way to Stromness.

July 29, 2008 | admin

Tall Ships