The Great Race between Ariel and Taeping - 1866

Oil on linen 28 x 42 inches

  The race to be the first to deliver tea to London was considered the pinnacle of racing seamanship. After 99 days at sea the Ariel was first to arrive at The Downs just 10 minutes before the Taeping. The Taeping’s tug was faster, however, and she docked 20 minutes ahead of the Ariel. The race was not considered finished until the
sample boxes of tea were hurled ashore in London Docks.
   The owners privately agreed to split the prize money. The captains when told of this arrangement were greatly disappointed. Neither sailed again.