Introducing: Pete Stirling

Former Jamaica Lightning Bolt skipper Pete Stirling is taking on the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race for the second time as he takes charge of one of the twelve brand new 70-foot stripped down Clipper Race yachts.

Pete, 47 will guide a team of amateur sailors around the world during the 40,000-mile adventure and is relishing building on his previous experience.

“I had a fantastic time, learnt a lot and made some great friends, which is one reason why I want to do it again,” explains the UK-based yachtsman.

Jamaica Lightning Bolt missed out on a podium finish during the Clipper 09-10 Race by just six points and Pete has set his sights on achieving a top three finish in the up coming race.

“During the Clipper 09-10 Race, my crew and I never actually won an individual race though we did get four second places and three third places and finished in fifth overall. This time I want to improve on our overall finish position and win a few of the individual races.”

The skippers and crews taking part in the Clipper 13-14 Race will be tested by some of the toughest sailing conditions during the eleven month race.

“I’m most looking forward to the Eastern Australia to Qingdao leg of the race,” reveals Pete.

“This leg offers the most variety in terms of weather conditions, race tactics, complex navigation and weather routing.”

Photography: © red-photographic