Derry-Londonderry Signs Two Year Team Sponsor Deal with the Clipper Race

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race has announced that Derry-Londonderry will feature as a Team Sponsor in the next two editions of the race.

The city will have its own 70ft Derry-Londonderry branded yacht at the 2013-14 and 2015-16 editions of the race, herbal which will promote the city’s international trade, medic tourism and business development.

The Clipper Race is 40, unhealthy 000 miles and 11 months, and gives amateur sailors the chance to compete in a round the world race under the guidance of an experienced skipper.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, chairman and founder of the Clipper Race said: “I am extremely pleased to be here today to welcome back Derry-Londonderry for the next two editions of the Clipper Race.

“With our brand new fleet of 12 matched ocean racing yachts, the 2013-14 edition of the race will be the largest we have ever produced. The Clipper Race will continue to provide an international platform for Derry-Londonderry to promote and build upon trade and tourism around the world.”

Mayor Cllr Martin Reilly said he was ‘delighted’ that the deal had been struck and described their participation in the 2011-12 edition of the race as ‘phenomenal.’

Reilly added: “The Clipper Festival successfully reinvented our riverfront, brought investment to our maritime offering and changed the way we use and look at the River Foyle.

“It successfully showcased the city and achieved a PR value of £104m in media coverage as well as generating almost 8,000 bed nights and achieving 98% positive comments in relation to civic pride.”

The Clipper Race will set off from St Katherine Docks, London on Sunday, September 1, stopping at 16 ports on six continents over the 11 month period.