ANTIGUA, 27 Feb 2026: The Royal Ocean Racing Club has officially declared the Farr 100 Leopard 3 as the overall winner under IRC for the 2026 RORC Caribbean 600.
Leopard 3 Crew: Joost Schuijff, Laura de Vere, Chris Sherlock, Aaron Reynolds-Lovegrove, Charlie Wyatt, Chris Nicholson, Corrado Rossignoli, Dom Davies, Gerry Mitchell, Giles de Jager, Guillermo Altadil, Henry Stone, Luke Molloy, Mark Petticrew, Matt Wearn, Nick Ryan, Pablo Torrado, Sam Mason, Samuel Wright, Scott Beavis, Tom McWilliam, Warrick Lilley and Will Best.
After completing 600 miles around 11 Caribbean islands, Leopard 3’s performance was unmatched, marking a repeated IRC overall victory following its success in 2024. The achievement adds to Leopard 3’s history with the race, having participated since its inception in 2009. The 2026 race was the ninth campaign guided by project manager Chris Sherlock.
“It’s a surprise to win it,” said Joost Schuijff. Reflecting after his fifth race with the team, he acknowledged the strength of competitor Black Jack, which claimed line honours. Laura de Vere echoed his sentiment, expressing excitement for their triumph despite fierce competition.
Schuijff highlighted the difference this year as being the result of cohesion and extensive preparation. “We have not been sitting still; we’ve been optimising the boat,” he explained. The crew maintained consistency, allowing them to finish without significant issues—a first in their races together.
The team upgraded vital components, including new rudders, an interceptor, and sails designed for reduced drag. Schuijff indicated this has markedly improved their racing efficiency.
Schuijff discussed a tense battle with Black Jack, particularly during the Guadeloupe to Barbuda stretch where Leopard 3 fell behind due to their sails. They managed to recover, but were surprised to win on corrected time.
Looking to the future, Schuijff foresees a potential electrification program for Leopard 3, hinting they may pause next year for enhancements, but promise to return in future events with an improved vessel.
The RORC Caribbean 600 Trophy will be presented to Leopard 3 at the prizegiving ceremony at the Antigua Yacht Club tonight.
For further details on the event, the full results can be found on the RORC Caribbean 600 website.
#Caribbean600 #RORCRacing #BlackJack100
Louay Habib/RORC
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