The Duchess of Cambridge teams up with Sir Ben Ainslie to get more young people into sailing and the marine industry.
As reported in the Daily Express – The Duchess, a keen yachtswoman in her younger days, will act as a figurehead for the 1851 Trust, the charitable arm of Olympic hero Sir Ben Ainslie’s bid to bring the America’s Cup back to Britain for the first time since the world’s oldest sporting trophy was won by a US yacht 163 years ago.
It reflects her interest in sailing and in using sport to support children and young people to build their skills, confidence and aspirations. The trust will work with young people under 25 years old and from diverse backgrounds, to inspire and engage a new generation through sailing and the marine industry.
I hope that through the 1851 Trust we can engage and inspire a new generation into sailing along the way
The Duchess of Cambridge
“I am delighted to be royal patron of The 1851 Trust. I feel very fortunate to have enjoyed sailing from a young age and I know it is a great way of providing young people with the opportunity to develop skills and confidence,” Kate, 32, said.
“It is a hugely exciting time for sailing as the British challenger bids to bring the America’s Cup back to Britain. I am looking forward to being part of this journey and I hope that through the 1851 Trust we can engage and inspire a new generation into sailing along the way.”
Kensington Palace said the 1851 Trust, which is supported by Ben Ainslie Racing, aims to inspire and engage a new generation through sailing and the marine industry, providing young people with the education, skills and training to become innovators of the future, and stewards of the marine environment.