An ‘emotional day’ as Clipper crews set sail
‘Like children on last day of school’
ORDINARY people are preparing to take on the most extraordinary challenge as 700 adventurers embark on a gruelling 40,000 nautical mile Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
Due to set sail on September 1 from London’s St Katharine Docks, the 11-strong fleet of identical 70-foot yachts are now in the capital.
Almost 175 crew signed up to sail from Gosport to St Katharine Docks, with the teams waved off by locals, friends, family and race staff.
Whilst not part of the official race, it was an emotional day for crew as they said goodbye to their base, where they underwent intensive training.
Jackie Webb and Jerome Riga, both ‘round-theworlders’ from the Ha Long Bay Vietnam team, can’t wait to get started.
Jackie said: ‘I’m from Australia and heading off around the world. I’m really excited to get going and for the whole race ahead.’
Tim Moody, Unicef UK, who is competing in Leg 6, the Mighty Pacific Leg, said: ‘The atmosphere is building already.
‘Training with my team has been amazing and our unifying force is helping children by flying the flag for Unicef.
‘Training has been tough on some occasions. There have been moments when I’ve wondered what on earth I’m doing.’
Clipper Race Training Manager Kirsty Squires said: ‘It has been emotional seeing everyone leave Gosport.
‘It was almost like seeing your children go off to prom on their last day of school, a very proud moment.
‘The change in crew from when they arrived on the first day of training is very apparent.
‘They arrived as individuals but are now setting sail as families.
‘It was sad to see the boats go and I’ll miss the blast of colour they brought to the marina.’