Argo Claims Thrilling Victory at 2026 RORC Caribbean 600
ANTIGUA – Jason Carroll’s MOD70 Argo (USA) has taken Multihull Line Honours in the 2026 RORC Caribbean 600, completing the grueling 600-nautical-mile course in an elapsed time of 01 Day 12 Hrs 01 Mins and 46 Secs after a ferocious, race-long battle with Jon Desmond’s MOD70 Final Final – Zoulou, just over three minutes behind.
A Race Defined by Tactical Duels
The two MOD70 trimarans were separated by just one mile at the finish off Fort Charlotte, Antigua – an extraordinary margin after nearly 600 miles of racing around 11 Caribbean islands. What unfolded was not simply a contest of speed, often exceeding 30 knots, but a shifting tactical duel from island to island which was decided by a smart move by Argo in the closing miles.
A Clean Start and Early Lead
“We expected it to be crowded,” said Argo’s Jason Carroll referring to the 11-boat Multihull start. “We knew we’d be faster than most of the fleet and that we’d have to make our way through. We ducked the line slightly late, but we felt comfortable we could tack and cross. We weren’t sure we’d be across Final Final – Zoulou, but we were, by about a length.”
Jason Carroll, Argo Skipper
Argo secured an early advantage by winning the start by approximately 100 meters. This initial lead translated into a steady advantage, growing to 8 minutes 14 seconds at Barbuda, 11 minutes 29 seconds at Nevis, and 11 minutes 34 seconds at Saba.
Shifting Conditions and a Northern Sparring Session
The race wasn’t without its challenges. Conditions throughout the race differed from previous editions, particularly behind Nevis. Normally behind Nevis it’s one of my favourite parts of the race; flat water, 20-25 knots, a fast reach,
Carroll noted. This time it was a run. We probably did 20 gybes where normally we’d just reach straight to Saba. It became a game of finding pressure in a narrow lane all the way down the west coast of the islands.”
Zoulou’s Challenge and a Guadeloupe Reversal
While Argo led for much of the race, Final Final – Zoulou remained a constant threat. Jon Desmond, chartering Zoulou for the race, and his crew stayed within striking distance. A pivotal moment came in the wind shadow west of Guadeloupe.
“Guadeloupe is always our nemesis,” Carroll admitted. “We often get there first and exit last. This time was no different.”
Jason Carroll, Argo Skipper
Argo slowed dramatically, allowing Final Final – Zoulou to surge past, taking the lead by 10 minutes 18 seconds at Les Saintes.
The Final Push and a Decisive Maneuver
Argo responded, narrowing the gap to just 1 minute 10 seconds by Barbuda. The final leg to Antigua became a classic match-race tacking duel. Argo executed a decisive double-tack, gaining clear air and edging ahead.
“We talked about doing two tacks in quick succession,” Carroll said. “The idea was to catch them off guard.”
Jason Carroll, Argo Skipper
Argo crossed the finish line first, with Final Final – Zoulou following just four minutes behind.
Respect Between Rivals
Despite the intense competition, both teams expressed mutual respect. They did an incredible job,
Carroll said of Final Final Zoulou. For it being their fourth or fifth day on a MOD70, that was really impressive.
Desmond echoed the sentiment, praising Argo as one of the best teams in the world.
The Winning Argo Team
- Jason Carroll
- Chad Corning
- Alister Richardson
- Brian Thompson
- Charles Ogletree
- James Dodd
- Pete Cumming
- Sam Goodchild
FAQ
- What is the RORC Caribbean 600?
- A 600-nautical-mile offshore race around 11 Caribbean islands, starting and finishing in Antigua.
- What type of boat is a MOD70?
- A 70-foot trimaran designed for high-speed offshore racing.
- Who was the skipper of Argo?
- Jason Carroll.
The 2026 RORC Caribbean 600 proved to be a thrilling spectacle of speed, strategy, and seamanship. Argo’s victory underscores their skill and experience, while Final Final – Zoulou’s performance demonstrates the growing competitiveness of the MOD70 class.