In the world of ocean racing, some boats bear the marks of their miles like seasoned sailors, while others, like Dan Litchfield's Hound, seem to defy both time and the elements. Launched over 50 years ago, this Aage Nielsen-designed 59-foot sloop continues to prove its mettle against much younger and technologically advanced competitors. Recent accolades, including a second-place finish in the St. David's Lighthouse division of the 2024 Newport Bermuda Race and podium finishes in the 2023 and 2024 RORC Caribbean 600, highlight Hound's enduring potential.
Sailing a Historic Course
Looking ahead to 2025, Hound is gearing up for one of the most prestigious challenges in ocean racing—the Transatlantic Race 2025. This grueling 3,000-mile journey from Newport, R.I., to Cowes, England, is expected to take Hound between 10 days and two weeks to complete. With entries steadily accumulating, a fleet of over two dozen boats is anticipated for this bucket-list event. The Transatlantic Race 2025 is a direct descendant of the first great transatlantic ocean race, which started from New York Harbor on December 11, 1866. This course has been plied with less frequency than other, shorter offshore racetracks; the 2025 edition will be just the 32nd transatlantic race organized by the New York Yacht Club.
The Allure of Ocean Racing
“Ocean racing is really special to me because it’s an opportunity to get offshore,” says Litchfield, a native of New York City. “You sail all the time, you’re totally dialed in. There are no distractions, you’re with your friends. And you get to go somewhere, you have to get from point A to point B. It’s a huge challenge.”
A Familiar Course for Litchfield
This race will be a return to familiar waters for Litchfield. “The last west-to-east transatlantic race I did was in 2003 racing Larry Huntington's Snow Lion,” he recalls. “It was a formative experience going into adulthood, right after college, and before work. I cherish that memory and am eager for another run at this.”
Experienced Navigator on Board
Joining Litchfield aboard Hound will be Ed Cesare, the navigator from that 2003 race. Cesare, an experienced racing navigator, brings his expertise to Hound for the upcoming challenge. “Going across an ocean, there’s nothing quite like it in any boat,” says Cesare. “The west-to-east transatlantic race, in particular, is storied. The Hound is a fantastic yacht—elegant and smooth as silk in all conditions. We’ll see a range of conditions in a 3,000-mile race, and Hound is ready for them all.”
A Testament to Enduring Craftsmanship
As the countdown to the Transatlantic Race 2025 begins, Hound stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship and competitive spirit, poised to add another chapter to her storied legacy. This race is a testament to the enduring spirit of ocean racing, showcasing the dedication and skill of the sailors and the timeless allure of these challenging voyages. Hound's participation underscores the ability of older vessels to compete with modern technology and the enduring passion for the sport. It is a race that honors the history of ocean racing while looking forward to new challenges and triumphs. It is a race that embodies the spirit of adventure, perseverance, and the thrill of pushing boundaries on the open ocean. The Transatlantic Race 2025 is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of human ingenuity, the power of the sea, and the enduring allure of ocean racing.
A Legacy in the Making
Hound's legacy is far from over. This seasoned yacht is set to make its mark on the Transatlantic Race 2025. Whether she crosses the finish line first or not, her journey across the Atlantic will be a testament to the enduring spirit of ocean racing. Hound is a reminder that age is just a number when it comes to passion and determination. She is a beacon of hope for those who believe that anything is possible if you dare to dream big.
