Two days later, however a disappointed Rutter left Howth without any of the silverware, consoling himself that the Saab event featured some of the strongest IRC 40 footers in the world.
However, the Quokka team didn't leave Irish waters entirely empty-handed.
The team obviously enjoyed the event, with a crewmember commenting on Sailing Anarchy that 'The format of seven races over three days was good but we'd prefer more windward/leeward to the coastal courses.'
And as they left the world of windward-leewards behind and embarked on the initial coastal leg of their homeward journey, the Solent crew managed to snag that elusive pot.
Early on Monday morning, Quokka aroused the attentions of the Coastguard in Killiney bay.
The Dun Laoghaire Lifeboat was called to render assistance to the 36-footer's three delivery crew who were bound for Poole in Dorset before becoming entangled in fishing pots off Bray head.
Quokka was towed back to Dun Laoghaire to effect repairs/removals and by the time they get home, we hear, lobster will be respectfully off the menu at the Royal Ocean Racing Club.
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