Press Release

SMYTH OUT FOR 2001

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA. March 28, 2001 - Six time winner and the only winning skipper of the modern Worrell 1000, Randy Smyth announced today that he is withdrawing from the 2001 race. He said that family obligations -  his wife Paula is expecting their second child in early April - and the fact that he has been away longer than expected in The Race, caused him to make this decision.

“I have a very active racing schedule, but most of the events I compete in are usually a few days to a week in length. The Worrell 1000 at two weeks is one of the longest.” commented Smyth, “So, after being away since early November I really need to get back to my family and business as a sail designer. To leave again for a two week event after being home for less than a month would not be fair to my family. ”

Worrell 1000 race director and founder Mike Worrell says “Randy will be missed. He has so dominated this event that to finish second to him was equal to a first in many other races. He raised the bar of excellence for everyone.” Worrell went on to say, “It’s a different ball game now. Randy by any measure was the team to beat. Now it’s a toss up. This is the most competitive field ever. I would say there are at least ten teams that have a serious shot at winning it this year with Randy out.”

Billy Baggett, whose family owns the Blockade Runner Beach Resort in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and is Smyth’s sponsor is also disappointed but is looking forward to next year.  “We traveled with the race last year, and had a ball. But, we’ll be back. In fact, we plan to be at the start this year in South Beach and to really welcome everyone when they arrive here in Wrightsville Beach.”

In an unprecedented action Worrell has accepted Smyth’s registration as the first official entry for next year’s race in May 2002.