BlueBolder: Biscay Challenges: Team Spirit Shines!

Monday, 15 September 2025

Biscay Challenges: Team Spirit Shines!

Stage 1: Battle Over Biscay certainly didn't disappoint the Clipper Race crews as they began the circumnavigation with a particularly challenging first race.

Met with strong winds in Portsmouth, UK, there was no gentle start for the ten teams as they settled into life on board the Clipper 70 racing yachts with strong, upwind conditions and choppy sea states. A big weather front passed as the teams entered the Bay of Biscay which made for even more challenges for the Race Crew, who were then met by spells of light wind on the final stretch to Puerto Sherry, Spain.

Taking an early lead and retaining it for most of Stage 1 was Team Scotland, finishing in first place after 8 days, 13 hours, 17mins and 11 seconds at sea.

First Mate on board Team Washington, DC, Charlie Cullen said: "We've had a challenging race with tough conditions. We've definitely bonded as a group. The last couple of days we've had some lovely downwind conditions. It's been really enjoyable."

Team Warrant Skipper, Dylan Kotze said: "It's been an adventurous few days of sailing and the welcome into Puerto Sherry has been lovely. Incredibly proud of the team, it was a really tough sail and these guys stepped up. We've come together as a group, a few days to reset during the stopover but we're ready to go for the next race."

To mark the partnership, NITE have created a bespoke ALPHA Z model with customisation to the bezel, dial, hands, crown, strap, buckle and case back, offering a bold and unique timepiece that meets the demands of ocean racing and to celebrate this incredible challenge.