Swiss Sailing Launch First Ever Contender in the Clipper Race

August 1, 2013

The Swiss Sailing addition to the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race has been launched on the South Coast of the UK.

The yacht, order which is simply named Switzerland, features the national flag and was unveiled by former Miss Switzerland Jennifer Ann Gerber.

President of Swiss Sailing Vincent Hagin, chairman and founder of the Clipper Race Sir Robin-Knox Johnston and team skipper Vicky Ellis were also on hand with Gerber at the launch.

Hagin said: “Swiss Sailing is proud to promote sailing with this partnership. We strongly believe Clipper Round the World Yacht Race is an outstanding event to show the possibilities and the beauty of our sport.

“We are very happy to enable with our partnership the adventure of a circumnavigation to amateur sailors. We can’t wait to hear their feedback!”

The Clipper Race allows amateurs the chance to sail around the world with an experience skipper and Ellis was proud to lead the team.

“Watching novice sailors become capable yachtsmen and yachtswomen is very rewarding, but to lead my own team around the world on behalf of Swiss Sailing is a huge honour,” Ellis said.

Speaking a day after launching the GREAT Britain boat in Trafalgar Square, London, Sir Robin commented: “I’m extremely pleased to be here today to welcome our Team Partners, Swiss Sailing on board the ninth edition of the race.

“Switzerland has a rich history of participation in ocean racing and we hope that involvement with the Clipper Race will allow them to build on the history and legacy within the sport in Switzerland.”