Two Teenagers Have Been Shortlisted by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and Sir Ben Ainslie for the Clipper Round the World Race.
Sir Robin said: “Congratulations to Charlie Stannard 19, and Heather Heather Thomas 18, who both impressed us with their level of passion and dedication to sailing. “On behalf of the Clipper Race, and the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation, we wish Charlie and Heather the best of success during the final selection process. Regardless of who wins the overall prize, they are both in for a highly inspiring introduction to ocean racing on board our specially designed Clipper 70 yachts.”
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race was conceived in 1995 by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston. The event gives paying amateur crew members the chance to sail around the world. The organizers own a fleet of identical yachts, and provide qualified skippers to lead each team. Crew can either sign up for the whole race, or one or more legs. In contrast to the slightly older Global Challenge (no longer being staged due to the owner company going into administration), the Clipper race uses lighter, faster boats and the route follows the prevailing currents and winds.
Charlie, who was nominated by Steve Mitchell, RYA Regional Development Officer for the Thames Valley and London region, said: “I felt incredibly proud to find out I was even being nominated for this competition, so to find out that I am a finalist was a huge surprise.”
Heather Thomas was nominated by Norman Stephens, senior instructor and trustee from Otley Sailing Club, in recognition of all the hard work and commitment she has shown from an early age to actively encourage sailing for all ages and abilities.
The Clipper Round the Work Race is divided into eight legs and 16 individual races covering 40,000 nautical miles. For more information visit the events website