Saturday, March 4th saw the largest pure carbon structure in the world, the maxi-cat Team Phillips, lowered into the River Dart amid cheers from 40,000 people lining its banks. Team Phillips, a catamaran bigger than Wimbledon?s Center Court, was hoisted and lowered by crane in a 25-minute operation. The six-man crew unfurled a banner which read "Thanks for all your support -- From Pete and the crew," prompting a roar from the crowd that was wielding union jacks and Team Phillips flags amidst the blare of airhorns.

For the 36-year-old Pete Goss, the launch was the culmination of five years of effort to dream, design, and build the catamaran. The giant blue craft is considered one of the most technologically advanced yachts built to break the 71-day round the world sailing record in the no-holds-barred regatta known simply as The Race, to be held later this year.

The boat made its 12-mile maiden voyage down river to Dartmouth, guided by inflatable craft. Over the next few days, the yacht's twin unstayed masts, the height of 10 double decker buses, will be fitted, and preparations for sea will begin. Team Philips will undertake sea trials before sailing up the Thames to be formally named by the Queen of England in London on March 14.