TYC Sailors Earn Second-Place Finish in Newport Bermuda Race

After nearly four days at sea and 636 miles of open-ocean racing, Thames Yacht Club sailors Eric O’Sullivan and Stu Caplan, along with the crew of Xcellent, delivered an outstanding performance in the 2026 Newport Bermuda Race, finishing second in their division against a fleet of 12 boats.

Xcellent crossed the finish line in Bermuda in 3 days, 22 hours, 39 minutes, and 36 seconds and posted a corrected time of 2 days, 8 hours, 14 minutes, and 49 seconds—missing first place by 6 minutes.

The impressive result placed Xcellent second in its division, 20th overall and 44th to cross the finish line.

For O’Sullivan, the result of years of planning and training paid off in his first Newport Bermuda race.  For Caplan, making his fifth crossing to Bermuda, the race added another memorable chapter to his offshore sailing career.

Back home, Thames Yacht Club members closely followed Xcellent’s progress across the ocean, cheering on the crew as they tackled the Gulf Stream, changing weather conditions, and the challenges of offshore racing.

“Finishing second in such a competitive field is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the skill, preparation, and determination of the entire Xcellent crew.,” said TYC Commodore Colin Redhead. “Their success has given TYC plenty to celebrate and serves as an inspiration to sailors who dream of one day taking on the iconic race to Bermuda.”

Well done, Xcellent!