Team Australia poised to set new Brisbane to Gladstone record

by Ian Grant on 6 Apr 2012 Sydney Ocean racing skipper Sean Langman, sailing with his 18 year old son Peter, is poised to write another record breaking chapter into his already impressive log book over the Easter weekend.

Langman who already holds the distinction of setting two of the three fastest times ever recorded in the mono class Brisbane to Gladstone race is poised to helm the fast lane sailing trimaran above an average speed of 16.28 knots to break the Multihull class record of 18 hours 55 minutes 9 seconds set by the Martyn Riley helmed Raw Nerve in 2004.

Team Australia a power sailing ORMA 18.4 m triple hull craft has the proven ability to sail twice as fast as the wind velocity which fills her sails.

Skipper Langman describes the vessel as an 'Awesome speed sailing weapon'.

He will have that chance to prove her record breaking capability during the physically demanding 308 n/ml Brisbane to Gladstone race which starts of the historical Sandgate Pier at 11am today.

They are encouraged with the coastal forecast now it is up to both skipper and crew to produce the best possible result.

Skipper Langman made a tongue in cheek quote that they were in the race to break the record.

His statement promises to become a reality with Team Australia poised to charge out of Moreton Bay on her way to allow her talented skipper and crew to claim a special place in Australian ocean racing history.

Barring gear failure and sail blowouts skipper Sean Langman and his skillful crew including female tactician Katie Spithill sister of Americas Cup champion James Spithill have the proven experience to pilot Team Australia to a runaway win.

They have a target to sail the 308 n/ml race with an average speed of 16.5 knots however Sean Langman said if the forecast allows the use of their secret weapon Code Zero reaching sail then Team Australia has the potential to slash the record and become the first crew to enjoy a warm shower at the Port Curtis Sailing Club before dawn on Easter Saturday.