Introducing: Olly Cotterell

Olly Cotterell, the Cowes-based yachtsman has been selected as a skipper for the Clipper 13-14 Round the World Yacht Race, charged with the task of guiding a crew of amateur sailors in the world’s longest yacht race.

“One of the amazing things about this race is that we will see such a variety of conditions,” explains Olly, 27.

“I’m looking forward to the Southern Ocean and the North Pacific for the challenging conditions. However, I’m also looking forward to the more technical legs such as Leg 7 where sound tactics should have a big bearing on results.”

The Bermudan-born skipper is no stranger to the Clipper Race and its crews having been part of pre-race training programme as well as a member of the Clipper 70 commissioning team.

“Doing something competitively on a matched fleet is an amazing opportunity and almost unique. I have always found sail training rewarding, particularly seeing crew develop from novice sailors to capable yachtsmen and yachtswomen.”

Olly will take charge of one of the twelve teams taking part in the Clipper Race. His crew will be a diverse mix of amateur sailors made up of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

“I think one of the biggest challenges is going to be creating a motivated, harmonious, competitive and united team from a crew with exceedingly diverse backgrounds and differing expectations of the race.”

Photography: © red-photographic