BP NZ farewells Explorer as race resumes on Sunday

4 February 2005

BP NZ farewells Explorer as race resumes on Sunday

After a month in dock with the rest of the Global Challenge fleet, BP Explorer will be escorted from Wellington Harbour on Sunday by a number of supporter vessels, including the BP Surf Lifesaving IRBs.

Sunday begins leg three of what is dubbed ‘the world’s toughest yacht race’. With its volunteer crew, BP Explorer will set sail on the 1,250 mile leg to Sydney before beginning the 6,200 mile Sydney to Capetown leg.

BP Explorer will resume the race in first equal position.

While in New Zealand the crew has taken leave to tour the country, regrouping in Wellington over the last week to equip the yacht and prepare to sail again.

BP Managing Director Peter Griffiths wished the team a safe and swift journey and encouraged the public to come down to the harbour and see the boats off on Sunday. The race resumes at 2.30pm.

“Having the Global Challenge yachts here in Wellington has been fantastic. We have had many members of the public stopping through the race village and the level of interest in the race and the yachts has been high.

“The crew have had a great time in New Zealand and are now setting out on what will surely be the adventure of their lives.”

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