Stephen Colbert To Sea: 'Brace Yourself!'

NEW YORK (AP) - Stephen Colbert is taking on the sea.

The comedian announced Friday that he will embark on the biennial OnDeck Charleston Bermuda Race on May 11. Colbert and crew will sail a 65-foot racing yacht on the 777-mile race from his native Charleston, S.C., to Bermuda.

The "Colbert Report" host plans to make the adventure a focal point on his show, treating it with far more bombast than Captain Ahab ever did.

Colbert says in a statement: "The ocean has had a free ride too long. Well, it has to deal with me now. Brace yourself, Atlantic!"

The 46-year-old has competed in the race once before, in 2005 shortly before the "Colbert Report" premiered.

The race is presented by sailing company OnDeck in partnership with the South Carolina Maritime Foundation and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. Colbert has been designated Honorary Captain of the Fleet by the race's organizers.

OnDeck called the race "one of the most challenging races in the Western hemisphere."

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Online:

http://www.charlestonbermudarace.com

http://www.colbertnation.com