Introducing: Vicky Ellis

British sailor Vicky Ellis can’t wait to get started after being unveiled as one of the twelve professional skippers who will guide a crew taking part in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.

“Clipper Race crew all have a spark about them that makes them different to the rest of the world,” explains Vicky, 30.

“It makes them stick their neck out and pursue this wild dream when the rest wouldn't dare. That's what I love about this race. They are a privilege to meet, great fun to train and I’m really excited about getting my race crew.”

Each of the twelve skippers will take charge of a 70-foot racing yacht which are preparing to compete in the 40,000-mile challenge, the only global ocean race open to everyone, regardless of background and sailing ability, and the longest in the world.

Vicky is no stranger to many of the areas of the Clipper Race route having sailed across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and it’s the North Pacific crossing that Vicky is most looking forward to.

“Every sailor knows the reputation of the Southern Ocean, and it is undoubtedly an awesome place. But for me the North Pacific leg is my real personal favourite looking ahead.

“The Pacific may conjure up sunny, tropical images but any vast ocean in winter is no place for the faint hearted or those who lack the perseverance and determination to cross it.”

A keen sailor from a very early age Vicky was introduced to sailing by her father and grandfather and began her involvement as training skipper with the Clipper Race during preparations for the 2011-12 edition of the race.

“The Clipper Race offers the type of sailing I really relish, on great boats with an inspiring crew. For me, a job really doesn't get much better than this.”

Photography: © red-photographic