The Jester Challenge to Newport, Rhode Island, 2014
Start off western end of Plymouth Breakwater, 1400 Sunday 11 May 2014.
Finish at a line extending due west (true) from Castle Hill Lighthouse on Newport Neck, Rhode Island.
This event had an unusual start. Due to heavy weather in the channel, nobody went to sea. The starting gun was fired from the balcony of the Royal Western Yacht Club, after which most skippers and supporters then returned to the bar.
Jester Challengers left for Newport on the following day (Monday 12th).
Two skippers, Paul Mead and Roger Fitzgerald, successfully reached Newport. Several of the retirements resulted from significant breakages, including Basil Panakis in Jaba who suffered a broken forestay but managed to return to Horta for repairs.
Our thanks to the Commodore and staff of the Royal Western Yacht Club as well as the Queen Anne’s Battery team for all they did, and to Norm Bailey for his continued support, guidance and help together with the hospitality of the Newport Yacht Club.
Starters
| Skipper | Yacht | type | LOA | Finish |
| Andy Lane | Gwezer | 1967 Jouet Régent | 27′ | Retired |
| Basil Panakis | Jaba | Contest Mk II | 25′ | Retired |
| Len Hiley | Scallywag II | Robert Tucker T23 | 24′ | Retired |
| Paul Mead | Independence II of Charlsian | S&S She 31b | 30’7″ | 20/6/2014 22:40 Local |
| Peter Crawley | Sheldro | Sarum 28 | 28′ | Retired |
| Roger Fitzgerald | Ella Trout III | Dehler | 29′ | 22/6/2014 12:40 Local |
Finishers
Gallery
Diaries and Reports
Basil Panakis – Preparing for a Solo Adventure, Jester Challenge 2014
Two-time solo Atlantic racer Basil Panakis shows PBO’s Ben Meakins how he prepared his 25ft yacht to face the Jester Challenge…. Read more
Jester Challenge 