New York had 290 miles to run to the finish line at the mouth of Fremantle's Swan River at 12 noon GMT on Monday. The US team has continued to race hard ever since the successful medical evacuation of crew Tony Peters following a head injury on the second day of Race 4 from Durban. High pressure systems and light airs have hampered the team's progress but they remain focused and are looking forward to spending Christmas in Western Australia, along with the nine teams that have already arrived.
New York Skipper Duggie Gillespie spoke of the team's early attempt to get into the festive mood: 'Despite being days behind the fleet in every way we are determined not to miss out,' he said. 'The Christmas decorations have been up for days; the Christmas cheer is taking its time in coming but it will arrive soon, especially if we keep the 10.5 knots boat speed we've currently got to Fremantle. There is a determination to get in, not for a podium as we know we've missed them, but to be with family and friends'
At Fremantle Sailing Club the day began with the arrival of Liverpool 08 who crossed the finish line of Race 4 at 0643 local time (2143 GMT 16 December) making it a disappointing ninth place for the team from the north-west of England. Despite this the team were in high spirits as they came alongside the pontoon at Fremantle Sailing Club where they will be berthed over the two-week stopover.
Skipper Ben Galloway said on arrival: 'We're all really pleased to get to Fremantle and it was wonderful to see so many of the crew's friends and family there to welcome us in. The result has certainly been a disappointing one but we're looking forward to a great stopover in Western Australia to enjoy Christmas in the Australian sunshine.'
The winner of Race 4 Durban 2010 and Beyond was the first of the Clipper yachts to be lifted out the water for routine maintenance today. The teams will be keen to get as much of the work completed as possible before enjoying the festive period under the Australian sunshine.
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