Thanks to Suzanne and Alan Whitewood for this latest report of Island sailor Leigh McMillan. Ed
Island sailor Leigh McMillan and his team on ‘The Wave, Muscat‘ are to defend the Extreme 40 title that they won in the 2012 series.
Launched at the Dusseldorf Boat Show, the Extreme 40 Series for 2013 will consist of eight rounds in different countries around the world. At the moment eight teams have signed up to take part in the various Acts which commence in February.
Opening 5th March
An eight-strong fleet is confirmed for the 2013 Series opener at The Wave, Muscat Oman on the 5th March. This includes one completely new team, and for several Acts the wildcard ‘one event’ slots are already filled.
Five of the teams who will be on the start line in Muscat on 5th March are returning teams: Red Bull Sailing Team, Alinghi, The Wave Muscat, SAP Extreme Sailing Team and GAC Pindar.
Another great season of Extreme Sailing Series
Mark Turner, Executive Chairman of Organisers OC Sport said “We have a great series of positive news releases coming up over the next few weeks as we build up to another great season of Extreme Sailing Series. It is great to kick-off with the renewal of the Marinepool (official clothing) partnership with a long term commitment, and a full starting grid for a rapidly approaching first 2013 Act in Muscat.
“With a fair amount of uncertainty reigning at the top of professional sailing, we’re very pleased that the Extreme Sailing Series is heading into its seventh continuous year of top level competition, and once again truly global”.
Veteran of the circuit
2012 winning skipper Leigh McMillan is back at the helm of The Wave, Muscat. An Olympic Tornado sailor and a veteran of the circuit, having raced in the class since 2006, Leigh won four of the seven Acts in 2012 and is hungry for more.
“We are feeling very excited about putting together The Wave, Muscat again for this season and hope to continue with the same level of performance as last year. We are keeping the same core team to hopefully keep improving and maintain consistency and we are adding a new challenge with the introduction of a second Omani crew member on board and will take him through the challenges of an Extreme 40. This is very exciting for us and we are confident that with that fresh challenge we will be a strong team.” he said.
A second team representing Oman Sail will also be on the starting grid in Muscat, these details will be confirmed in February.
