Dublin pro-sailor Shane Hughes of North Sails Ireland was onboard the supermaxi Black Jack from Monaco during this week's record-breaking run in the Gotland Runt.
Black Jack made history by setting a new speed record at Gotland Runt – the world's largest annual offshore race. With a total race time of 22 hours and 4 minutes, Black Jack broke the previous record, which was set by Johnny Mordaunt and a part-Irish crew on the VO70 Tschuss II in July 2024. At that time, Tschuss II sailed the course with an average speed of 14.12 knots.This year's record-breaking race by Black Jack resulted in a new average speed of 14.24 knots, meaning the record was surpassed.
Black Jack showed its capability right from the start of this year's approximately 314 nautical mile course, which was slightly shortened for safety reasons. With perfect, yet at times challenging, wind conditions, the boat was able to maintain high speed throughout the entire course.
"Breaking the record is truly an achievement. The conditions have been quite tricky, which we here in the north are perhaps more accustomed to. But Tristan and his young crew on Black Jack have truly sailed with focus and skill," says Håkan Andersson, Race Director for Gotland Runt.
Black Jack, a 100-foot supermaxi, participated in Gotland Runt for the second time. The boat is internationally renowned from several of the world's largest offshore races, including the classic Sydney-Hobart.
Black Jack skipper Tristan Le Brun and his Gotland Runt record breaking cxrew including Ireland's Shane Hughes (back row, second from right) Photo: Alex Turnbull
"We knew the potential was there, but sailing in record time exceeded all our expectations," says skipper Tristan Le Brun. "This is the result of a strong team, a top-class boat, and the right conditions. We've received a fantastic welcome here and really want to recommend all offshore sailors to come here and sail," Tristan continues. "Furthermore, we are proud to have a young crew and are actively working to fill the boat with the offshore sailors of the future," Tristan concludes.
This year's edition of Gotland Runt has been marked by challenges and historic achievements. Due to a strong low-pressure system with storm-force gusts, the race management was forced to make the unusual decision to postpone the start, which instead took place early Monday morning – a delayed start of over 16 hours.
With nearly 200 participating boats from ten nations and an impressive new speed record, Gotland Runt solidifies its position as one of the world's most iconic and prestigious offshore races.
Next up for Hughes on Black Jack is the Fastnet Race.
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