The Tall Ships Races 2010 draws to a close

Heavy rain at the start of the Parade of Sail could not dampen spirits as the fleet of 57 vessels made their way out of the port into open water at Seaton Carew before turning and heading north, following HMS Cattistock and the Class A race winner Norwegian ship Sorlandet.  

As the rain stopped and the sun broke through many of the ships set their sails as they made their way along the parade route.  

Now that the port is quiet again Hartlepool can be proud of itself, having done a great job in providing facilities and entertainment for the ships and crews and for people of the north east and beyond.  

Around half of the fleet are now at anchor close to the start line of the North Sea Regatta, which begins tomorrow at 14:00 local time tomorrow (Wednesday).  Eight vessels are making their way back into port to change crews and will be leaving again soon.  The remainder have started on their way to their next destination, be it their home port or another port along the way.

The Tall Ships Races 2010 are now at an end, after over four weeks of challenging racing, fantastic port visits and friendships made and renewed.  And of course, 5000 young people whose lives have been changed in a positive way.

Pic:  Tenacious (UK) in the Parade of Sail