Leading all round Fastnet Islands in yachting 's classic Bermuda Race . Philippe Peyron 's Maxi Banque Populaire was leading battle for first honors . The race record of 44 hours 18 minutes is held by Mike Slade 's Icap Leopard 3 , set in 2007 . Record 314 starters for the 1000 mile offshore classic . 15 competitors died in the race as fleet hit by vicious winds .
Leading all round Fastnet Islands in yachting 's classic Bermuda Race . Philippe Peyron 's Maxi Banque Populaire was leading battle for first honors . Record 314 starters for the 1000 mile offshore classic . 15 competitors died in the race as fleet hit by vicious winds .