Iker and Xabi finish second in the Barcelona World Race. Image copyright Maria Muina/Barcelona World Race.
by Helena Paz
Skippers Iker Martínez and Xabi Fernández have become the first Spaniards to complete the second edition of the double-handed round the world regatta
Skippers Iker Martínez and Xabi Fernández have become the first Spaniards to complete the second edition of the double-handed round the world regatta. At 11:17 local time Tuesday, 5th April, the IMOCA Open 60 "MAPFRE", with Olympic champions Iker Martínez and Xabi Fernández crossed the line marking the end of the Barcelona World Race 2010-11, following 94 days, 21 hours, 17 minutes and 35 seconds of racing.
Iker and Xabi spray the champagne! Image copyright Maria Muina/Barcelona World Race.
The Basque skippers, visibly thinner, but beaming despite the tiredness, have become the first boat of the 14 that set off from the Catalan capital on the 31st of December to sail around the world and to reach Barcelona having made no stops and without receiving any external assistance. Iker Martínez and Xabi Fernández establish themselves not only as the leading Spaniards in the regatta, but also as the fastest ever crew to sail around the world on a monohull in the history of Spanish sailing.
Right now "MAPFRE" is heading for Portal de la Pau, by the famous statue of the explorer Columbus, where the yacht will moor and the pair of skippers will step onto dry land for the first time since setting off. They will also be greeted by their family and friends, as well as the general public. After that, Iker and Xabi will attend a Press Conference to be held in the Barcelona Port Authority Building.
MAPFRE
Barcelona World Race
