Crews show sporting team effort

Tall Ship trainees left the sea behind them and took their competitive spirit to a new level today (Friday 26 July) enjoying team sports events in Kronvalda Park in Riga, Latvia.

Activites include a canal regatta where crews competeted against each other in pedalos around a tree lined canal circuit. Their sailing, rope pulling expertise was then put to good use in friendly tug of war battles.

Other activiites included sumo wrestlng, a bucking bronco and kick boxing. There were also lots of family activities – from bands, boat painting and poetry, to massage and tai chi.

Meanwhile, huge crowds of visitors have been flocking to the harbour to visit the ships and enjoy the music, food and Latvian handicrafts.

Tonight the crews can relax and enjoy a special crew party. Tomorrow, the final day, will be celebrated with a crew parade, prize giving ceremony and fireworks.

The daily programme of events in Riga can be found here.

A photo gallery of images is updated on a daily basis here.

Read blogs from the vessels here.

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Editor’ notes:

What is sail training?

Sail Training is an adventure activity, which includes far more than sailing instruction. Participants are required to confront demanding challenges, both physical and emotional. It is an activity that inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility. It promotes an acceptance of others, whatever their social or cultural backgrounds, and develops a willingness to take controlled risks. Those who undertake Sail Training on Tall Ships generally find it a positive life-changing experience.

About Sail Training International (STI)

STI is the international voice of Sail Training, a registered charity (not-for-profit organisation), which has worldwide membership and activities. Its purpose is the development and education of young people through the Sail Training experience, regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background. It organises the annual Tall Ship Races and other international Tall Ship sailing events.  STI members are 29 national Sail Training organisations around the world and STI’ head office is in Gosport, Hampshire, UK.

The organisation was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize 2007 for its work in promoting international understanding and friendship.

Facebook: Sail Training International