Hodgdon COMANCHE initial testing in Newport

Newly launched Hodgdon 100-foot (30.5-meter) pre-preg carbon fiber racing yacht Comanche undergoes initial testing in Newport, Rhode Island

Photos by George Bekris

Comanche is now preparing for its assault on this year's Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2014. After completion of rigging, Comanche underwent her first sea trial in Newport, Rhode Island this week. “Comanche was designed and built to break monohull sailing records,” said Timothy Hodgdon, president of Hodgdon Yachts at the official launch at the Monaco Yacht Show. “She’s going to be fast. We’re very proud of this boat.”

The boat and its crew arrived under tow after a 25-hour journey from Hodgdon Yachts yards in Maine. With the arrival, the assembly phase started. The keel and mast have been fitted and stepped and Comanche sailing trials are beginning.

After the first sea trials, the boat will then be loaded up onto a cargo in early November for final testing and training in Sydney, just a month before the start of the race. Following the Rolex Sydney Hobart race, plans are in place to take part in other classic races such as the Bermuda Race, the RORC Caribbean 600, the Transpacific Yacht Race or the Transatlantic Race.