Brian Benjamin's Carbon Ocean 82, Aegir was the standout yacht at the pinnacle event of the Mediterranean sailing season, winning the Cruiser/Racer class at the 23rd Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup with a perfect score line and taking line honours in every race, despite competing against much larger yachts.
 
"This is the result of five years hard work to produce a cruising yacht that is fast and fun, Aegir does exactly what it says on the tin, and nobody can doubt that now." Commented Benjamin. "To win with straight bullets was a true demonstration of the fact that the Carbon Ocean 82 is faster than the competition. Aegir will be put back into cruising mode now and we will be proudly flying the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup winner's flag at the Monaco Boat Show."
 
Aegir's owner, Brian Benjamin served in the British Army and decided to help the combined services initiative - Toe in the Water - by including an injured serviceman as part of his crew for the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Lance Corporal Chris Herbert of the Yorkshire Regiment, who had his right leg amputated in Iraq, was the reserve helmsman on Aegir. He is believed to be the first amputee to drive a winning yacht at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup. Herbert was understandably very emotional about the achievement.
 
"Brian has to drive all the time but he is allowed a five minute break per hour." Explained Chris Herbert. "As the designated relief helmsman that means I get to take the wheel. If you had told me that a few years back, I would have just laughed at you. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of the Aegir team; a great bunch of guys and a week I will never forget."
 
Aegir has a truly international crew with sailors from Australia, Britain, Ireland, Malta, USA, Spain and Sweden. For more information visit the Carbon Ocean Yachts web site:www.carbonoceanyachts.com

Louay Habib

See Rolex Cup images

Last Updated ( Monday, 10 September 2012 )