Leg one awards

Podium placers awarded, along with media, seamanship and environment prizes for Volvo Ocean Race

Last night, 27 December, sailors and shore crew from all of the Volvo Ocean Race teams assembled for the Leg One prize-giving ceremony at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, South Africa.

The evening kicked off at 19.00 with a champagne reception, followed by a delicious three course meal. The awards ceremony began at 21.00 and teams were enjoyed a photography slide show on the big screen followed by some exhilarating video footage from the first leg and Monday’s in-port race.

Among the prizes awarded, Richard Mason, Kiwi crewmember on board Ericsson, picked up the Seamanship Award for his quick thinking and bravery when Ericsson’s keel canting system failed during the leg. It was Ericsson skipper Neal McDonald (GBR) who nominated Richard for the trophy and presented it to him on stage.

“Richard took on the task of restraining our keel when the system controlling the cant failed 1,000 miles out of Cape Town,” commented McDonald. “His quick thinking and knowledge of the system on board Ericsson enabled him to lock the keel in the middle and keep sailing the boat to Cape Town. He took on the task with total professionalism, dedication and enthusiasm. The safety of the crew and boat were in his hands and he did us proud.”

“This was the last thing I expected,” said a delighted Mason, “it was a team effort and everyone onboard deserves this prize.”

It was Richard Mason who also bravely dived in the ocean after the storms of the first night of the race, to cut the rope and debris free from Ericsson’s rudder.

Simon Fisher, the navigator for ABN AMRO Two, collected the Media award for his efforts in front of the camera during Leg One, while Mike Sanderson, skipper of ABN AMRO One, collected the Environmental prize. ABN AMRO One, ABN AMRO Two and Brasil 1 collected prizes for the podium places on Leg One.

After the prizegiving everyone took to the dance floor, before reluctantly being ushered out when the party ended at 01.30.