Before taking part in the 2009 OSTAR race.                                           Pip Hildesley

The OSTAR single-handed transatlantic race from Plymouth, UK to Rhode Island, USA, is one of the most gruelling endurance tests for sailors being mainly against the prevailing wind and with the possibility of fog and icebergs to contend with. The race is held every four years with an international field which, this year, comprises forty boats.

Technology has made the race even more competitive, resulting in greater proximity between competitors as they battle it out for key positions during the 2,500 mile race. Most competitors enter to test their own abilities and to gain vast experience - Pip Hildesley is no exception to this.

Pip decided to enter the race last year and proceeded to gain match practice by sailing her boat back from South America to Southampton. Despite encountering tempestuous weather in the South Atlantic she arrived back safely into Hamble before sailing round to Suffolk Yacht Harbour for final preparations.

Email to FLAG Paints Ltd received from Pip (June 2009)

I just wanted to let you know how genuinely impressed I have been with my antifouling.
 
I meant to write to you pre race, when after one month in the water I had to lift The Shed out to change the rudder bearings and the bottom was in immaculate condition. I gave it a quick rub with 600 grit for a slippery Atlantic finish.
 
On finishing the race the bottom is still totally weed free and smooth as you like and I can definitely attribute some of the speed I found in the shed to the use of your product as well as a lot of back breaking wet sanding.
 
I have attached a picture of us finishing so you can see for yourself how good it was.

Thank you for you support
 
pip