Australia training base to expand Clipper Race presence in Asia-Pacific

Plans to establish a new training base in Australia have been announced as part of the continuing development of the Clipper Race in the Asia-Pacific region.

With record numbers of Australians signing up for future races, Clipper Ventures is looking to create a permanent presence in the country by establishing a training hub and corporate sailing operation in time to support Clipper 15-16 Race crew, initially featuring two of the 68-foot ocean racing yachts which have helped hundreds of amateur sailors circumnavigate the globe.

“Increased Australian participation in the Clipper Race by crew and sponsors makes it a logical choice in expanding our presence in the region with two yachts allocated to a new training and corporate sailing operation,” announced Clipper Ventures Chief Executive William Ward.

Clipper Race officials have been in the region this week to develop opportunities in China, Singapore and Australia. Mr Ward inspected progress on the new Clipper 70 fleet under construction in Qingdao before briefing local government and business leaders on the growing Success of the Clipper Race.

“We are not only expanding the capacity of the Clipper Race with our new larger fleet of twelve 70-foot ocean racing yachts, but welcoming a growing number of crew and sponsors from around the world,” added Mr Ward.

Addressing the guests at the event, Vice Mayor of Qingdao Wang Guang Zheng said, “The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race has become an integral part of the international sailing events held in Qingdao and an important channel to reinforce Qingdao’s position as China’s sailing capital.”