New Open 50 for Graham Dalton shipped

by Jo Gawith on 31 Mar 2006 A new 50-foot yacht on which Graham Dalton will sail in this year’s single-handed around the world race, the VELUX 5 OCEANS today made its first sea voyage from Lyttelton, New Zealand to Auckland on a Pacifica Shipping coastal vessel.

The carbon fibre composite hull, made by Davie Norris Boatbuilders of Bromley in Christchurch, will be fitted out in Auckland prior to the start of the Velux 5 Oceans race which begins in Bilbao, Spain on 22 October 2006.

'Moving the two-and-a-half tonne load on a special cradle by coastal ship was the safest way to transport the mirror-smooth and vulnerable body of the hybrid racing yacht' Graham said.

Named 'A Southern Man – AGD' it is the first Open 50 class yacht built in New Zealand and features a canting keel and 3.5 metre retractable centreboard amongst other high-tech gear to aid solo ocean racing.

The letters AGD have been added to the boat’s name in memory of Graham’s 23-year-old son, Tony, who died in December last year.

'Tony had resolved to give a name to the yacht and follow the race, but it wasn’t to be,' he said. 'By having his initials and photo affixed on the sides, he will be going with me in spirit and we can complete together what he wanted to do.'

Graham said he expected the 30,000 nautical mile race, which will make just two stops in Australia and the USA, to take around 140 days. 'After the frustration of being forced to retire on leg three of the 2002 Around Alone race, I am treating this one as unfinished business,' he said. 'Although I am four years older and this is the most mentally and physically punishing event imaginable, I am determined to make the finishing line this time around.'

Supporters will be able to monitor Graham’s progress on the internet as he competes against the elements and the international competitors in his class.