Albany to host Clipper Race in Western Australia

The 2013-14 edition of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will stop in Albany, Western Australia, at the end of Leg 3 from Cape Town later this year.

Amateur crew from all walks of life competing in the 40,000-mile Clipper Race will be welcomed with a community festival at Albany’s waterfront marina in late November after completing the notorious ‘Southern Ocean Sleigh Ride’ leg from Cape Town.

City of Albany Mayor, Dennis Wellington, said the Clipper Race’s global focus will provide a great opportunity for Albany to position itself as an international tourist destination.

“Albany’s role as a host during the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race will be vital in attracting foreshore development and investment.

“We will not only see a direct economic benefit of AU$1 million this year, but it will be the perfect lead into the Anzac Centenary commemorations in 2014.

“The long term tourism benefits are likely to create further opportunities to drive the local economy into the future,” Mayor Wellington added.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the chairman and founder of the Clipper Race, added: “I first heard of Albany 45 years ago in October 1968 during my solo non-stop Golden Globe circumnavigation as I was sailing past and heard about the wool auctions there from the local radio.  

“That created a curiosity to see the town and the Clipper Race visit will give me that opportunity at last.  The crews are looking forward to enjoying the legendary hospitality of Western Australia.”

The Clipper 13-14 Race will set off from St Katharine Docks, in front of Tower Bridge in London on Sunday, 1 September on a 40,000-mile journey around the globe, making it the world’s longest ocean race, stopping at 15 ports on six continents over 11 months.