Norwegians Like Being First

Norwegian vessel, Auno, is continuing the Norwegian trend to be ahead in The Tall Ships Races 2011 as she became the first to arrive in Lerwick today before the 1200 deadline on Thursday 21 July. 

The almost 70 year-old Auno is a traditionally rigged sailing vessel and has five crew and five sail trainees on board. She will start Race Two in Class B on Sunday which will see the fleet head to Stavanger in Norway.

Ottar J Aare, skipper of Auno said: äóìWe’re delighted to be the first ship to arrive in Lerwick and look forward to a fantastic weekend of Shetland hospitality and a wonderful welcome from the people of Lerwick.äó

Harbourmaster Captain Calum Grains, chairman of the harbour sub-committee of The Tall Ships Races Lerwick – 2011 said:  “It is great to see the realisation of many months of planning for the Tall Ships fleet.  It will be a busy few days with arrivals but we are all ready and looking forward to welcoming the international crews to Lerwick.”

The Tall Ships Races 2011 is presented by Szczecin and organised by Sail Training International.

 Photo by Dave Donaldson.