The all-British crew aboard Basilica will take to the water today looking to repeat their Grand Prix win in Rio de Janeiro, when the third leg of the Volvo Extreme 40 Grand Prix series gets underway in Baltimore, USA.

Against the spectacular backdrop of Baltimore harbour and in front of the thousands of expected viewers, the unchanged Basilica crew will be looking to overtake Tommy Hilfiger at the top of the overall leader board with another stage win. After the team’s triumph in Rio, Team Basilica is in second position overall on 15 points, one point behind the American boat.

An incredible atmosphere is expected when the VX40 boats bring Baltimore harbour to life, as the high-speed catamarans produce some of the most exciting in-port racing ever seen.

Basilica skipper James Grant comments: “With the boats racing so close into the harbour I am expecting tricky conditions with the built up area making the wind difficult to read. However, we can’t wait for the challenge – the conditions will be the same for every team. We will be going all out to secure another leg win for Basilica in what I’m sure will be an electric atmosphere.”

The Baltimore Grand Prix comprises five days of racing and takes place from Friday 28 April until Wednesday 3 May, with a rest day on Saturday 29 April. Racing is scheduled to begin at 14:00 with the five teams expected to compete in three 30 minute races per day.

After Baltimore, the teams will head to Portsmouth for the fourth and penultimate leg from 27 May to 3 June.

Rio – Volvo Extreme 40 Grand Prix Series Points Standings:

1. Tommy Hilfiger – 16 points
2. Basilica – 15 points
3. Motorola-CHR – 12 points
4. Volvo Ocean Race – 12 points
5. Holmatro – 11 points

Remaining Volvo Extreme 40 Grand Prix Series Dates:

Baltimore, USA 28 April – 3 May, 2006
Portsmouth, UK 27 May – 3 June, 2006
Rotterdam, Netherlands 9-14 June, 2006