York to Bermuda ended their trip being towed in 50 miles from shore.

The men, both from North Carolina, left from near The World Trade Centre at 9.19 a.m. on Wednesday in a Carolina Catamaran powered by two 225hp Mercury Optimax engines.

During the crossing they experienced mechanical problems with the boat's systems but were able to keep in touch with John Trimingham in Bermuda by satellite telephone.

Very early on Friday, about 50 miles off Bermuda, the boat ran out of gas. The men radioed for help and a crew went out from St. George's to tow them to shore.

To break the existing record the men would have had to arrive at Town Cut before 2.49 p.m. on Thursday. John Trimingham says that they may try again to break the record.

After their arrival in Bermuda the boat was moored in Stokes Bay and the two Americans took the first flight back to New York.