Over one hundred Tall Ships sail into Aarhus, Denmark
The Tall Ships Races 2013 started with a bang today (Thursday 4 July) as the final two of 101 Tall Ships sailed into Aarhus port in an exciting ‘sea battle.’
Gotheborg (Sweden) and Shtandart (Russia) arrived into the port of Aarhus, Denmark firing ‘friendly’ canons across the ocean. Then, dressed as pirates, the ships’ crews thrilled crowds of visitors by singing sea shanties.
The Tall Ships Races 2013 in Aarhus promises an action packed four day event (4-7 July) to welcome vessels from 13 different flag states. And over 3,000 international trainees will be arriving over the next few days to prepare to race to Helskinki, Finland in the first leg of this world class four port race.
The Tall Ships Races 2013 was officially opened by double Olympic gold medallist Shirley Robertson, who is a sail training ambassador. Shirley said in her welcoming speech, äóìNearly 9,500 young people will be sailing in the Tall Ships Races this year and taking part in a sail training adventure of a lifetime.
äóìMany of them have never stepped foot on board a ship before, let alone sail on a Tall Ship. But they are about to embark on an amazing experience, face challenges they have never faced before and develop friendships that will last a lifetime.”
Christer Samuelsson, Event Chairman said, äóìThe Tall Ships Races 2013 have been four years in the planning and we can now look forward to a spectacular event. Aarhus has welcomed 13 flag states and over 3,000 trainees will be joining the spectacular fleet of international vessels.”
The port of Aarhus is celebrating with music, workshops, sports activities and more.
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.
For further information contact Sally Titmus, Communications and Marketing Manager, Sail Training International +44 (0)23 9258 6367, mobile +44 (0)7827 298733 sally.titmus@sailtraininginternational.org
