Graham Matthews and the Equilibrium crew cross the finish line just west of the Auckland Harbour Bridge at 16:10 on Saturday 18 April, completing 532 nautical miles in 2 days, 5 hours, 10 minutes and 56 seconds.
Third on line honours, just 10 minutes and 13 seconds behind Mr Kite II after more than 53 hours of racing. In a fleet of this quality, over a course of this distance, that margin is remarkable. Equilibrium sailed hard, sailed smart, and gave everything to the finish line.
The handicap sheet tells a harder story. Equilibrium‘s 1.059 rating, the heaviest in the fleet, stretches their corrected elapsed to 2d 8h 19m 12s, placing them fourth (at time of finish) on PHRF. For Graham Matthews and his team, third on the water after 500 nautical miles of offshore racing is a result to be proud of.
A great night’s sail, a tussle with Mr Kite all the way home, and a finish to remember. Well sailed Equilibrium.
