Press Releases

Great American II Completes Its Historic Voyage!

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA: November 27, 2001—At 13:29:22 Melbourne time, Rich Wilson and Bill Biewenga crossed the finish line in Melbourne Harbor and completed their race with history.

Rich and Bill have broken the speed record from New York to Melbourne, set by the clipper ship Mandarin in 1855–56!

Great American II was accompanied by the MV Challenger as they sailed the last 10 miles to the finish line. Aboard the Challenger were reporters and well wishers, all coming to greet Rich and Bill and welcome them to Melbourne.

During these final 10 miles, Great American II was almost becalmed as a predicted high pressure weather system moved in. But a breeze came up for the last 400 yards, pushing the boat to speeds up to 15 knots as they crossed the finish line.

Rich and Bill were first greeted by Lesley Maxwell, Rich's wife, and Carolyn Nguyen, Bill's fiancée. They were the first to board Great American II and presented Rich and Bill with champagne and colorful leis.