"Ariel and Teiping"

This picture was chosen as the opening screen for the Regatta Scoring and Race Management program, because of my personal admiration for the accomplishments of the commercial clipper ships. Many of the worlds great sailing records are now, over a century later, still held by these magnificent vessels. When we think we are gloriously sailing in our high tech tupperware, it is worthwhile to reflect that these ships sailed for profit. They set their records loaded with cargo, while trying to make a buck. When is the last time any of us sailed to benefit the company's bottom line!

The vessels Ariel and Teiping left Shanghai, heavily loaded, within one hour of each other headed for England. They proceeded within sight of each other on and off, for one third of the time. They were never able to shake each other. When they got to the Channel, they were again sailing virtually overlapped.

The two ships arrived at Liverpool within 15 minutes of each other. Teiping, being the smaller vessel had less draught and cut the corner a bit closer.

Consider that in those days the crew participated in the profits of the cargo, and that the cargo which arrived at market first brought a greater price.

You bet that was a sailboat race, and that besides personal gratification, there was a great deal of wealth at stake!

It is unlikely there will ever be a greater ocean race than the memorable match race between Ariel and Teiping.