RUSSIA: TALL SHIP RACE ENDS IN ST. PETERSBURG

(20 Jul 1996) English/Nat
The Cutty Sark Tall Ships race in which one-hundred ships from 20 countries took part has ended in St Petersburg in Russia.
The race began two weeks ago in the German port of Rostock and some ships came from countries as far away as Mexico, Ecuador and Oman to compete in the race.
First and second prize in the race were taken by Russian ships.
The prestigious Cutty Sark Tall Ships race ended in St Petersburg, Russia's second largest city and former capital.
100 ships from 20 countries took part in the race, which began two weeks in the German port of Rostock.
Although Russian ships have been taking part in the race since 1976, it is the first time that Russia has been used as a stage in the race.
The U-S Coast Guard was represented by the "Eagle", built in 1936 for the German Navy as a training ship for the growing Nazi naval forces.
After the war, it was taken as booty by the US and has since
been stationed in Connecticut, Maine.
It now serves as a seagoing classroom for the future officers of the U-S Coast Guard.
On arriving in St Petersburg, crew members were making the most of the historic Russian city.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"They've gone into the museums, on tour of the palaces, just taking in as much culture as they can in three days, it's a big city for three days"
SUPER CAPTION: Lieutenant Eric Jones, U-S Coast Guard
This year marks the 300th anniversary of the Russian Navy and St Petersburg's history runs parallel with that of the Russian fleet.
The city was founded by Peter the Great in 1703.
It was known as the "water gateway of Russia" and acted as one of the country's main ports and naval base for the Baltic Fleet.
First and second prize in the race were taken by Russian ships.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"I'm sure that in the last two weeks, first in Rostock and then on the race, and then here in St Petersburg, that you all have different memories which will last for the rest of your lives."
SUPER CAPTION: Admiral George Wallingson Chairman of the Race Committee
Ships came from thousands of miles and from countries as far away as Mexico, Ecuador and Oman to compete in this years' race.
The ships arrived in St Petersburg yesterday and the crews have two days to see the sights and enjoy themselves before the long journey home.
SOUNDBITE: (English)
"See the sights, drink some beer, dance around, have a good time."
SUPER CAPTION: Brian Johnson, US naval cadet
After two weeks at sea and the hard work done, crew members were able to relax and enjoy meeting each other.
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