2022-23 Ocean Race: 11 Hour Race Team Victory Over Newport • (…]

Skipper Charlie Enright was elated as he took to the ground, moments after his team edged out Team Malaysia to cross the finish line in first place and claim their victory in the first stage of the race.

“It means a lot to us,” Enright said. “Timing is everything and to get that result, at this point, at our home in Newport, is unbelievable. Everyone in the team played a part and did what they wanted to.

“It’s so good to see all the boats on the water and the people here on land to welcome us and share this with us. We are grateful for the support and thrilled to be able to bring this victory to everyone here.”

The stage was not easy. During the 17-day race north from Itaga in Brazil, teams had to manage many transitions between weather systems, from the Southern Hemisphere trade winds to the North Atlantic trade winds, passing through the doldrums.

Two days before arrival, a storm produced winds in excess of 50 knots and rough seas, conditions described as “terrifying” by Amory Ross, the reporter on board.

Despite it all, Team 11th Hour Racing and Team Malizia traded the race lead more than a dozen times before Enright and his team finally took the win on Wednesday afternoon.

“It was a great race,” said Will Harris, Team Malaysia’s captain. “It was a close race, which we always appreciate. It prepares us for the next stages.”

The day’s results, combined with the retirement of race leader Team Holcim-PRB after losing on day four, mean that the top three teams in the standings will be held at one point at the start of the Transatlantic Race on Sunday 21 May.

Paul Meilhat’s Biotherm crew is still at sea bound for Newport, with more than 150 miles covered. Her arrival date on Thursday was pushed back because the boat got stuck in weaker winds.

The ranking of the fourth stage at 11:00 pm, French time, on Wednesday, May 10, 2023

• 1. Eleventh Racing Team – 5 points
• 2. Malaysian team – 4 points
• 3. Biotherm – race
• 4. GUYOT environment
  environment
  
  – Team Europe – Race stopped
• 5. Team Holcim-PRB – stage abandonment – 0 points