Earthrace back to full capacity

Earthrace back to full capacity as it leaves Singapore ahead of world record

London/Singapore, 9 June 2008: Earthrace, the world’s fastest eco-boat, successfully underwent massive repairs in Singapore and will set off later today on the next leg of its world record attempt to Cochin, India, where it is expected to arrive on Friday 13th June.

Earthrace is a 24m tri-hull wavepiercer that runs on biofuel and is on day 42 of its attempt to break the world record for a powerboat to circumnavigate the globe. Despite the delays for repairs, the boat is still 1,556 miles ahead of the world record pace, set by the British Cable and Wireless team in 1998, despite sustaining significant damage in Palau and having to complete the last leg of the journey on one engine.

The crew has relied on the generosity of a number of companies that stepped forward to offer Earthrace support for speedy repair upon arrival to Singapore, particularly POSH SEMCO, an offshore marine service contractor, Assetton asset management, and J B Global, project sponsor. Repair work was successfully carried out in three days, after the ground crew spent the whole of last week sourcing components and shipyard space.

“Assetton wanted to help Earthrace’s world record attempt because we believe it is a great reminder of the race against time to protect our planet,” said Mohan Nainan of Earthrace sponsor Assetton.

POSH Semco director, Peter Lee, said “we were happy to help Earthrace in her hour of need. As marine salvage specialist, we want to support this worthwhile project, and we were the only company who could act quickly to help save the race.”

Justin Beeton of J B Global is already a Presenting Sponsor of Earthrace since January. He said “when I heard about the critical repairs required, I immediately wanted to lend further support. I am delighted to confirm my sponsorship for the Australian tour next year and as Sydney Tour Host Sponsor in January 2009.’ Justin will also be joining as Guest Crew on the final leg of the race, along with Paul Topley of Churches Fire Security.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity we’ve received in Singapore,” says Skipper Pete Bethune. “After the accident in Palau we began to doubt whether we still had a shot at the world record, but now the boat is back in top shape and weather conditions for the leg to Cochin are great.

“I’m constantly amazed by all the fantastic support individuals and companies across the globe have shown to Earthrace. Each one of their efforts counts in helping us smash this record and showing the world the potential for sustainable fuels.

“Once we reach Cochin we’ve only got three refuelling stops to go. If we can maintain this pace up the Suez Canal and through the Mediterranean we could be back in Sagunto 17 days ahead of the world record.”

Earthrace is now en route to Cochin, India. Keep up-to-date with the boat’s progress via the live satellite tracker at www.earthrace.net

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