Every year, one of the most eagerly anticipated awards presented at the Tall Ships Races is the announcement of the winner of the Torbay Cup, and 2017 was no different…
During the final port celebrations of the Tall Ships Races 2017 in Szczecin, we announced that Polish trainee Karol Zdanowski had been awarded the prestigious Torbay Cup.
The Torbay Cup is presented annually to a young person aged 16-25 years old, who has demonstrated outstanding individual achievement and personal effort in a Tall Ships Race or Regatta, organised by Sail Training International.
The Torbay Cup winner is awarded a bursary worth €500, to put toward another voyage during one of our many events.
This year the award went to Karol, who has overcome personal challenges to become a supportive, hard-working member of the crew and a friend to all those who know him. His cheerful attitude, and willingness to help in any situation, led to him becoming a highly valued and respected crew member.
During the final leg of the Tall Ships Races 2017, the fleet raced across the southern Baltic Sea between Klaipeda, and Szczecin, Karol took part in every way on board his ship. His eagerness to help out whenever needed played a vital role in helping the crew attain a twelfth place finish in particularly challenging winds conditions.
You can experience all the exhilarating excitement of an adventure under sail on board of Pogoria (Poland) just like Karol, or you can take advantage of one the many voyages available on hundreds of ships around the world. Here at Sail On Board you can start your journey to taking part in a Tall Ships voyage using our Find Your Adventure and Support sections.
Karol Zdanowski on board the Tall Ship Pogoria with the Torbay Cup.
What Karol Thought
“The voyage from Klaipeda to Szczecin was one of the best journeys of my life. I have previously sailed on smaller boats and took part in the Lisbon, Portugal, to Cadiz, Spain, leg of the Tall Ships Races 2016 and applied to race this year again because that journey was just so enjoyable.
“I was most looking forward to seeing the beautiful Tall Ships in the fleet again and experience exciting sailing conditions. The sailing from Klaipeda to Szczecin included some of the best sailing of my life, but my favourite part of this adventure was the Crew Parade in Szczecin. The whole city was just beautiful and fantastic.
“I learned a lot of things during the race, including how strong winds can be dangerous for you… but I love the excitement of these extreme adventures!
“Right now, I just want to sail again straight away because the crew on board were just so friendly and were great sailing teachers. To anyone thinking about taking part, all I can say is it is a very good idea… Just do it!”
Karol Zdanowski, 2017 Torbay Cup Winner
Karol Zdanowski accepts the Torbay Cup in Szczecin, 2017.
Feeling Inspired?
You can experience all the exhilirating excitement of an adventure under sail on board of Pogoria (Poland) just like Karol, or you can take advantage of one the many voyages available on hundreds of ships around the world. Here at Sail On Board you can start your journey to taking part in a Tall Ships voyage using our Find Your Adventure and Support sections.
To help you take the first steps toward the experience of a lifetime, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Even if you haven’t quite decided on what you want to do, and where you want to go, we can guide you through the process. Email the Sail On Board support team on enquiries@sailonboard.com. We’ll happily answer all your questions, and try to solve any problems you might be experiencing.
