Helical Bar chief executive Mike Slade enjoyed a double celebration in the French medieval city of St Malo on Friday.
Mike Slade’s Leopard: leader of the pack
Following the recent announcement of a record 23 per cent increase the net asset value of shares in the property investment and development company, Slade was again in buoyant mood after racing his 100 ft Maxi, Leopard, in the prestigious RORC Cowes to St Malo Race.
Facing 173 yachts – the highest ever entry figure for the event – Leopard took monohull honours and smashed the race record with a time of just under 12 hours for the 150 mile dash across the Channel.
The performance adds to the countless record-breaking achievements of Leopard, which is one of the most famous names in sailing history, and confirms the reputation of Mike Slade as one of the best known figures in the sport.
“It is extraordinary to break a race record by over two hours and the timing couldn’t be better after record results for Helical Bar,” he said after the race.
“In business and yacht racing, it is all about teamwork and keeping that team together. The Helical Bar team has been together for 17 years and is still going strong and the majority of the Leopard yacht crew have been together just as long, or even longer.
“There is no doubt that teamwork leads to success, highs and lows are a fact of life, but how the team pulls through the difficult times and capitalises on the highs, is of great importance.”
Mike Slade’s Leopard has now been installed among the favourites for the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s Fastnet Race in August. This year’s event marks the 90th anniversary of the infamous 600 mile race in which 400 yachts will be competing for honours.
