2-Handed Rolex Fastnet Victory for Criterion Girls

Lorna Graham and Jo Burchell - the Criterion Racing Team - have successfully defended their doublehanded title from the 1999 race, completing the Rolex Fastnet Race in 4 days, 7hrs and 5mins.

Having made history in the last race, as the first ever 2-handed crew to take part, Criterion were also the only all-girl crew in the 608nm race which started from the Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes on Sunday 12th August.

At a prizegiving ceremony in the Guildhall, Plymouth, Graham and Burchell collected the Brunskill Trophy for best overall in the 2-handed division. Racing their HOD35 Criterion to victory in the fleet of 211 yachts, they also took 3rd position overall in the IRC Class 2 division and beat their own time from the 1999 Fastnet.

Lorna Graham from Lymington, Hampshire said: "The Fastnet is a very tough race. It's really a series of long sprints broken up into stages. We are delighted to win and keep hold of the 2-handed trophy. We pushed the boat hard and ourselves to the limit every step of the way to maintain maximum speed and it paid off."

Jo Burchell from Dorset commented: "The Rolex Fastnet Race is a unique race that brings out the real corinthian spirit of offshore racing. Everyone is there because they want to be there. The race attracts a whole variety of boats and people and the different nationalities taking part, make this a classic race. From the big boys who are professional sailors, to the little guys who that just want to take part for their own personal challenge."

More Information:

• YachtsandYachting.com Fastnet Page