Solo Trans-Tasman Challenge: First finishers in Southport.
by Richard Gladwell/Sail-World.com/nz 5 Jun 18:38 PDT
Sharon Ferris-Choat (NZL) - Vixen Racing - Start - Solo Trans-Tasman Challenge - May 30, 2026 © Jacob Fewtrell/Insight Media/Insightmedia.co.nz/
The Sharon Ferris-Choat skippered Vixen Racing crossed the finish line off Southport, this morning to become the first monohull to finish.
She crossed the start line at 12.15hrs, taking just over seven days for the crossing, and is the first New Zealand entry to complete the race.
In her final commentary on social media, from the VPLP Verdier-designed Class 40, Ferris spoke not of the strong winds but of the extreme cold overnight and of being forced to wrap herself in a survival blanket to stay warm.
Earlier, Oceans Tribute, skippered by Guy Chester, was the first competitor to cross the finish line at Southport Yacht Club on Queensland's Gold Coast, taking 6 days, 7 hours, and 36minutes for the 1,170nm leg across the Tasman Sea.
A veteran of a world solo circumnavigation, Chester said earlier in the race that conditions experienced in this race were the worst he had experienced in 40,000nm of ocean sailing.
The race started at 12:00 hours on Saturday from Opua, Bay of Islands.
Solo Trans-Tasman Challenge organisers have confirmed, last night, that the Open 40 Roaring Forty skippered by Kevin Le Poidevin (AUS) has retired.
The Class 40 has arrived at Lord Howe Island, where repairs will be undertaken before determining the next steps.
Race Management remains in contact with the skipper and will continue to monitor the situation.
The race has been notable for strong squally winds, which hit the fleet on the first night and following day - first from the NE and then switching to the SW accompanied by squalls of 40-60kts and thunderstorms.
Four of the 13 starters have withdrawn from the race.
YB Tracking: pro.yb.tl/solott26
Website: www.solo-tasman.co.nz