Swiss sailor Bernard Stamm has won Leg 1 of the 2002 Around Alone. Sailing his Pierre Roland Open 60 <I>Bobst Group - Armor Lux</I>, Stamm crossed the finish line off the Berry Head Hotel in Torbay harbor at 15:33:38 local time (14:33:38 UTC).
Throwing his arms into the air and smiling broadly Stamm looked tired but jubilant as he waved at the crowds assembled on the docks to welcome him. It has been a fast crossing for Stamm who earlier this morning set a new transatlantic solo record when he passed Lizard Point off the southwest coast of England.
"I am very excited to hold a new record and to win this first leg of the Around Alone race. I have been preparing my boat for the last year and the hard work has paid off," he said. Stamm must be especially happy to be in Torbay having lost power two days ago forcing him to hand steer for the remainder of the trip.
"I am very tired from steering my boat by hand and looking forward to getting some rest, but now I am too excited to sleep. Maybe later."
Bernard will be taken to a welcoming pontoon for an official welcoming by the Mayor of Torbay, Heather Buckpitt. He will then attend a press conference.
Second place finisher Thierry Dubois on
Solidaires is expected to arrive around mid-night tonight.