Time limit applied to Race 14 to Derry-Londonderry

The current race from New York to Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland will have a time limit applied due to the challenging weather patterns hampering some of the fleet’s progress.

Racing will cease at 1300 BST (1200 UTC) on Sunday 22 June when distance to finish at that time will be used to award places and enable boats to make best speed to Derry-Londonderry by motor-sail.

Race Director, Justin Taylor made the decision after the stationary high pressure system which is centred west of Ireland, and the wind coming from the direction the fleet is heading continues to hamper its progress. This will ensure for the teams towards the back of the fleet will arrive in Derry-Londonderry before the scheduled prizegiving on 24 June.

Race Director, Justin Taylor explains the difficulties the teams face: “The fleet’s direct route to the finish passes through the centre of the high pressure system which will result in the yachts stalling and slowing down. The only alternative is for them to either go above or below the high pressure which will lengthen the time to finish.”

The first boat is expected to arrive in Derry-Londonderry on the morning of Monday 23 June with the remainder of the fleet due on the Foyle by the afternoon of  Tuesday 24 June. You can follow the fleet's progress here on the official Race Viewer. 

For more information on the LegenDerry Maritime Festival please visit www.legenderrymaritimefestival.com