Momentum building in the Med

Momentum is building as the three ports taking part in the Lycamobile Mediterrean Tall Ships Regatta prepare for the coming of the Sail Training fleet this autumn.  Barcelona, Spain (21-24 September), Toulon, France (27 – 30 September) and La Spezia, Italy (4-7 October) are recruiting and training volunteers and preparing their ports for the arrival of the ships and their trainees.  

“A lot of work goes on behind the scenes for several years prior to a Tall Ships event and as we have been visiting each host port we can feel the anticipation and excitement building.  I believe it is going to be a thrilling event for everyone involved” said Race Director Mike Bowles MBE.  

To-date some 34 vessels have signed up for the event, including ten spectacular Class A ships, some of the finest tall ships in the world.  Magnificent to watch and even better to sail on, the fleet includes Mir (Russia) one of the fastest tall ships in the world and winner of five Tall Ships Races since 1996 (pictured).

There is no upper age limit (min age 15 years) for the trainees taking part in the races, who will enjoy amazing scenery, fast sailing and lots of festivities in the host ports.  If you would like to give it a try, click on this link  

äóìWe are greatly looking forward to the arrival of the Tall Ships fleet in the Mediterranean, which will be a spectacular sight for visitors to each portäó said Chairman of the races M.Christian Bickert.

Lycamobile  – title sponsor of the Mediterranean Tall Ships Regatta

Gaastra – official clothing supplier to the Mediterranean Tall Ships Regatta

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For more details please contact Pauline Appleby, Media Manager, on pauline.appleby@sailtraininginternational.org  Tel: +44(0) 7785 567487

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.

A two-minute film can be seen here.

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