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Branson to attempt new record
04/09/2008 16:47 - (SA)
New York - He has set world records for
transatlantic crossings in a powerboat and balloon and now
British billionaire Sir Richard Branson is aiming to make the
fastest crossing of the Atlantic in a mono-hull sailing yacht.
Branson will attempt to beat the record of six days, 17
hours and 52 minutes during the next few weeks when conditions
are right, sailing from the Ambrose Lighthouse, just south of
New York City, to Lizard Point in Britain.
Branson, who set his last record in 2004 by making the
fastest crossing of the English Channel in an amphibious
vehicle, said he will partner with the sailing squad from
Britain's America's Cup challenger TeamOrigin. Three members of
TeamOrigin recently won gold medals at Beijing Olympics.
"It is real privilege to set sail with such an able and
experienced crew," Branson said in a statement. "We're all
hoping we can add to the recent successes of British sailing.
I'm also delighted to be taking on another record attempt."
The chairperson of the Virgin Group, who announced his plans
in New York City on Thursday, will also be joined by his two
children, Holly and Sam, for the record breaking bid aboard the
30m Super Maxi yacht Virgin Money.
In 1998 Branson tried unsuccessfully - with co-pilots
Steve Fossett and Per Lindstrand - to become the first
balloonist to fly non-stop around the world. Fossett, who
disappeared in 2007 while flying an airplane in Nevada, went on
to set the record in 2002.
- Reuters
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