Neville Crichton waited 30 years before returning to compete in the Transpac Race. It was well worth it.

Crichton's Alfa Romeo shattered the elapsed-time record in the 2,225-nautical-mile race from Los Angeles to Honolulu by more than a day. The New Zealand-based Reichel Pugh 100, with a crew of 16, crossed the Diamond Head finish line at 12:36 a.m. yesterday, taking line honors in 5 days, 14 hours and 36 minutes.

Morning Glory set the previous record of 6 days, 16 hours and 4 minutes in 2005.

Crichton last competed in the event in 1979 while he was living in Hawaii. He raced a 42-footer that finished eighth out of a fleet of 22.

The 45th biennial race began with 48 yachts, but two—Silent Running and J World—have since withdrawn.