Home welcoming for Qingdao after triumphant Clipper race

After racing more than half way round the world, Qingdao has arrived home to a triumphant welcome at the brand-new Wanda Yacht Club in West Coast New Area of Qingdao, after securing fifth place in Race 8 of the Clipper 2017-18 Round the World Yacht Race, The Sailing City Qingdao Cup.

Qingdao, Skippered by German Yachtsman Chris Kobusch crossed the finish line 11 nautical miles off the coast of Qingdao at 04:35:42 UTC, with the corrected time of 02:40:42 due to redress, to complete the 1,700 nautical mile race from Sanya in just over ten days.

Qingdao had a rocky start to Race 8, and spent the first few days in tenth place after needing assistance from fellow Clipper Race team Nasdaq. But Qingdao quickly recovered. After jumping three places on Day 4, the team peaked in third place on Day 7.

A decision to head west away from the chasing pack paid dividends with Qingdao earning three bonus points for being first across the Scoring Gate but it meant the team was unable to catch the teams in front and secure a podium position.

Skipper Chris: "Race 8 was very interesting, it was a tough start and it was upwind but then it was a nicer finish for the team and it was mostly downwind conditions and the last couple of days coming into our home port of Qingdao was amazing."

"But coming into port with the fireworks and to see all of the people who have come here to support us is incredible."

Round the World crew member Greg Schey, a 28 year old Doctor from Wales added: "It was disappointing not to get a podium in our home port but everyone was very proud of how hard we work in the race from Sanya to Qingdao."