, Bermuda?s sole participant in this year?s Charleston to Bermuda Race (C2B), was expected to arrive safely in local waters early last night.

Richard Hartley and crew were reported to be in great spirits after being greeted by local fishermen and entertained by a large school of dolphins.

Hartley has already etched his name in local sailing history in becoming the first Bermudian ever to sail up to Charleston to compete in the trans-Atlantic regatta.

At Press time last night, preliminary results strongly suggested could be declared overall winner ? though final race results won?t be confirmed until later today.

Owned by the husband and wife team of Hank Hofford and Susan Ford, crossed the finish line off St.David?s Lighthouse in the early hours of last Wednesday morning ? the sole entry to complete the 777 nautical mile crossing prior to race officials invoking Rule 11.2 of the C2B due a ?little or no winds? to the west of Bermuda.

The race was officially declared completed as of 8 p.m. last Wednesday night with all participants to be scored according to an alternative scoring system.

Hofford and crew completed the trans-Atlantic crossing in four days, six hours and 38 minutes ? some 12 hours outside the unofficial race record (73 hours) set by Richard Orchard?s in 2001.

Meanwhile, Frank Whiting?s came to the assistance of a de-masted Trimaran some 125 miles off St. David?s. At last report, Whiting?s Camper Nicholson 40 was attempting to transfer fuel onboard the stricken yacht.

All C2B entries are expected to arrive safely in local waters prior to tonight?s prize presentation.

The Charleston to Bermuda Race was founded ten years ago. The event challenges sailors to navigate the 777 nautical miles between Charleston and Bermuda at a time of year known for tricky, unpredictable weather.

Simply known as the C2B, the race has also acquired a reputation of focusing on fun. Sponsors of this year?s event include Gosling?s Black Seal Rum, Bennett-Hofford Construction Company, KLAR, Wyndham Bermuda Resort & Spa, Bermuda Tourism, Bauer International and many others.