New Patches reaches Europe

Eamon Conneely's TP 52 to be commissioned in Valencia

Eamon Conneely’s brand new Reichel Pugh designed Patches arrived by ship at this weekend in Valencia after 22 days at sea from Hong Kong. In what could turn out to be an increasing trend to build race boats in the Far East, this boat was built by McConaghy International in their Chinese facility in Don Guan.

Skipper Ian Walker, who’s company High Aspect project managed the build process, is delighted with the results: "It was perceived as a brave decision by Eamon to build in China, but McConaghys are one of the best boatbuilders in the world and we were confident they would build a very high quality boat on time. We are thrilled by the work of Mark Evans and his team. With the first Breitling MedCup regatta starting in one month we could not afford any delays."

Owner Eamon Conneely who visited the yard in China in January to monitor progress explained the decision to build a new boat: "We have had two great seasons in the old Patches and it is never easy to stop sailing a fast boat. Last year it was terrific to win the Copa del Rey and finish third overall in the Breitling MedCup circuit. We are also aware that as in all sports the standards go up year on year. We are looking to improve in every area. I asked John Reichel to make subtle improvements to the hull to improve light air and upwind performance, we have changed some of the deck layout according to the wishes of the crew, we have a new three spreader rig and we will be improving the sails and crew."

The new Patches will again have a Hall Spar mast. Like many of the top boats last year it will have three sets of spreaders. The sails, as in previous seasons, will be from the North Sails UK loft in Gosport, overseen by Patches’ trimmer Simon Fry.

Patches will be commissioned over the next three weeks in Valencia and will then be delivered to Alicante in time for the first Breitling MedCup regatta. Skipper Ian Walker is very aware of the time pressure: "Time is still tight for the first regatta as new boats always take time to set up and optimise. I would like to thank McConaghy’s and Reichel Pugh for the creating such a great looking boat and it is now up to the crew to do the rest. We have a very experienced team who have been together a long time. I have high hopes for the season."

Of interest to any potential new TP52 teams will be the fact that the very competitive old Patches is still available for sale or charter in time for this season’s circuit.

For information on sale or charter of the first TP52 Patches or sponsorship of the new boat please contact Ian Walker.