Supermaxi Commanche changes hands ahead of Sydney Hobart
by John Curnow 14 Dec 2017 01:05 PST
Comanche bolts as Wild Oats XI gives chase during the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race © Rolex / Kurt Arrig
Commodore Cooney adds to his fleet. News today that Gentleman Jim Cooney has purchased the Big Red Girl (aka Aircraft Carrier), and queue the tune from Queen now, just before this year's Hobart. Neville Crichton has stepped down from his role as charterer from his friend Jim Clark, but the super-talented crew assembled for the assault on the annual classic will remain on board.
Jim is bringing two of his children, Julia and James, as well as friend Jeremy Tilse on board LDV Comanche, with the new full name remaining as the existing sponsorship remains in place. They will be praying for a repeat of last years weather, which will suit her to a tee. "LDV Comanche is a truly awe-inspiring yacht and the chance to race to Hobart, alongside my children Julia and James with a world-class crew, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity too good to pass up," Cooney said.
LDV Comanche's form is well known around the globe, but it is her monohull record for the 24 hour run and 20+ knot average for the last Transpac that really tell the tale. James Spithill and Stan Honey head up a stellar crew.
All in all the purchase on Thursday Sydney time means the four supermaxis at the pointy end of the fleet all now have Australian owners.
If you would like to read more about the Commodore, Gentleman Jim Cooney, then please read our report from last year, which you can find right here