ICAP Leopard starts Heineken Cape to Bahia Race in Cape Town

5:42 PM Sat 10 Jan 2009 GMT

'ICAP Leopard, British 100ft supermaxi starts 2009 Heineken Cape to Bahia Race - image Brenton Geach' Click Here to view large photo

Saturday, at 14:00 local time, ICAP Leopard, the British 100ft supermaxi crossed the start line of the 2009 Heineken Cape to Bahia Race in Cape Town, South Africa.

Having negotiated a great start in a 25-30 knot south easterly breeze, ICAP Leopard was quick to lead the IRC racing fleet out of Table Bay. As the largest boat in the fleet ICAP Leopard will be looking to set record pace on this brand new course.

Speaking from the boat shortly after the start, owner Mike Slade commented: 'What a fantastic place to start an offshore race. It is sad to be leaving Cape Town as it is a wonderful city, but we had a terrific send off and are looking forward to a thrilling race. Next stop Salvador!'

Having successfully negotiated the short inland course, the fleet has begun its journey west into the South Atlantic. Close behind ICAP Leopard, is 90ft US maxi Rambler, owned by George David.

The rivalry between the two yachts goes back to the 2008 Rolex Fastnet Race, where ICAP Leopard took line honours, only to be pipped on handicap by Rambler. With both yachts having the potential to complete the race in under 11 days, you can count on a close fought battle between the two.

Following the Heineken Cape to Bahia Race, ICAP Leopard will compete in the RORC Caribbean 600 and Antigua Sailing Week, before heading to North America for a number of corporate events. She will then return to the UK for the summer racing season and her corporate charter commitments.

by Jake Motion

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