Photography by © Flagstaff Marine
31 October 2023
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‘Lenny,’ a First 44 Performance yacht and the division runner-up of Transpac 2023, has successfully completed her journey from Hawaii to Australia and has arrived in Sydney. This remarkable achievement sets the stage for the prestigious Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race later this year.
During their voyage, the crew made stopovers at Fiji and New Caledonia, facing challenging weather conditions and demonstrating their resilience. Overcoming a ridge of high pressure and winds exceeding 40 knots, they reached the Australian coast 20 October 20. Congratulations to the crew for their determination and skill!
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The Transpacific Yacht Race (Transpac) is a distinguished biennial offshore event, covering a distance of approximately 2,225 nautical miles. The race begins at the Pt. Fermin buoy in San Pedro, California, and concludes at Diamond Head in Hawaii.
The owner of ‘Lenny,’ Charles-Etienne Devanneaux, is a seasoned ocean racer and the proud owner of Naos Yachts, the Beneteau dealership in California.
Charles shares his admiration for the yacht, highlighting its exceptional safety features, well-designed deck, and cockpit. The crew encountered minimal technical issues throughout their voyage, further emphasising the reliability and performance of ‘Lenny.’
Currently docked at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) in Sydney, ‘Lenny‘ and its experienced crew, led by Charles, are preparing for the upcoming Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. In addition, they will participate in the Beneteau Cup – Sydney which will be held at CYCA 27 October.
This event not only provides an opportunity for friendly competition but also allows them to connect with the vibrant Beneteau owners community in Australia.
Looking ahead to the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023, ‘Lenny’ will be manned by Charles and his skilled French sailors, along with Yann Masselot, Chief Brands and Communication Officer for Groupe Beneteau’s Boat division. Their combined expertise and dedication make for a formidable team.
Launched at Cannes Yachting Festival 2022, the First 44 is a racer-cruiser, presented in two main setups: FIRST 44 and FIRST 44 PERFORMANCE, with a different deck plan and options for keels and masts. She offers a streamlined interior layout that is modern and luminous, with a blend of white lacquered surfaces, moulded woods and tasteful upholsteries.
She is crafted and finished in a dedicated workshop that delivers the full scope of BENETEAU expertise.
Since this September, Beneteau Asia-Pacific has launched the First Experience, a series of sailing events that provide boat owners and sailing enthusiasts with the unique opportunity to truly experience the legendary First models.
The First Experience will take place in five different iconic cities across the region, with Hong Kong being the inaugural destination.
Date: 27 October 2023
Venue: CYCA, Sydney, Australia
Date: 15 & 16 December 2023
Venue: CYCA, Sydney, Australia
Models on display: First 27, First 36, First 44.
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