The first ambitious challenge at a speed record in the North Atlantic by Giovanni Soldini and Maserati was announced in Milan. As from early February Soldini and a crew of seven will be engaged in seeking to become the new record holders between Cadiz (Spain) and San Salvador (Bahamas) on board Maserati, a VOR 70 monohull which has been completely overhauled.

In addition to skipper Soldini, Maserati will be crewed by 7 capable yachtsmen with a past track record in open ocean-going regattas and in competitions such as the America’s Cup. German Boris Herrmann (navigator), American Brad Van Liew (watch leader) and Spaniard David Vera (watch leader) will make up a team completed by four Italians: Gabriele Olivo (trimmer), Guido Broggi (boat captain), Gerardo Siciliano (second bowman), and Corrado Rossignoli (first bowman).

The record for the Cadiz-San Salvador run which is 3884 miles long, is monitored by the World Sailing Speed Record Council, the international body that gives official status to the fastest sailing times along the historical routes once plied by clippers. Only maxi trimarans have sailed across this route before: Maserati will be the first monohull attempting to establish the record in its category.

“The challenge is a demanding one, given the length and the difficulty of the route,” explains Soldini. “In the first half of the journey our concern is the area of high pressure that could potentially block our path near the Azores. During the second half, the difficulties could be the fronts and depressions which, if too low, will slow the boat down. Nevertheless, I am sure it will be a fantastic experience and I am delighted with the entire crew.”