Branson to attempt transatlantic sailing record
NEW YORK (Reuters) - He has set world records for transatlantic crossings in a powerboat and balloon and now billionaire Sir Richard Branson is aiming to make the fastest crossing of the Atlantic in a mono-hull sailing yacht.
Branson will attempt to beat the record of six days, 17 hours and 52 minutes during the next few weeks when conditions are right, sailing from the Ambrose Lighthouse, just south of New York City, to Lizard Point in Britain.
Branson, who set his last record in 2004 by making the fastest crossing of the English Channel in an amphibious vehicle, said he will partner with the sailing squad from Britain's America's Cup challenger TeamOrigin. Three members of TeamOrigin recently won gold medals at Beijing Olympics.
"It is real privilege to set sail with such an able and experienced crew," Branson said in a statement. "We're all hoping we can add to the recent successes of British sailing. I'm also delighted to be taking on another record attempt."
The chairman of the Virgin Group, who announced his plans in New York City on Thursday, will also be joined by his two children, Holly and Sam, for the record breaking bid aboard the 99-foot (30-metre) Super Maxi yacht Virgin Money.
In 1998 Branson tried unsuccessfully -- with co-pilots Steve Fossett and Per Lindstrand -- to become the first balloonist to fly non-stop around the world. Fossett, who disappeared in 2007 while flying an airplane in Nevada, went on to set the record in 2002.
(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; Editing by Eric Walsh)
