Race Committee Chair Martin Vaughan received bad news on Wednesday when a mail arrived from Last Hurrah co-skippers Peter Bush and Alan Lang advising that they would be reluctantly withdrawing from the race.
Peter explained that it had been an extremely difficult decision but one regrettably brought on by his need to have a knee replacement. A specialist had made it clear that he couldn’t compete in the race in his current condition and there was insufficient time for surgery and recovery before the race.
Peter went on to say that the decision had been particularly hard as he and Alan had taken 18 months to find the right boat and had already spent another two years making the vessel race ready. The boat was ready to go today and has proved to be fast and a delight to sail and more so to race. Peter and Alan had twice previously contemplated the event and acquired boats but never been able to get to near start line, due to business commitments.
Peter thanked the Organising Committee for the support given and in particular commend the Committee, the ORCV and Sandringham Yacht Club for the professional organisation and detailed preparation that has gone and is going into the event. Peter concluded “It’s clear to us the race will be a huge success and has a solid future. We would like to wish the Organising Committee and all competitors fair winds and great sailing. Good luck to all.”