It’s a family affair

After witnessing his wife take on the elements during Legs 7 and 8 of the Clipper 11-12 Race, David Fitzsimmons, has signed up to follow in her footsteps along with daughter Lizzy.

Wendy, who was a crew member on board De Lage Landen, will no doubt be glued to the Race Viewer while husband and daughter take part in the first two legs of the Clipper 13-14 Race.

“I have always been aware of the race, but attending the London International Boat Show last year we saw the Clipper Race stand and my wife came back and said, ‘I’ve just been accepted’, I had no idea she had signed up!” explains David.

“I’ve always loved sailing and I’ve always wanted to sail the Atlantic and the race gives me the opportunity to do it, I love being at sea.”

David’s adventure will see him wave goodbye to family and friends in the UK and race across the Atlantic Ocean towards South America. A vibrant welcome will await the crews before setting sail again in search of South Africa. That is where David’s adventure will come to an end while daughter Lizzy will take on the Southern Ocean during the race to Western Australia.

“I’m nervous about the heat during Leg 1, I do better in cold weather than warm, and you can always wrap up if you’re cold and you get warmer if you’re being active,” continues Kent-based David.

“I’ve found the training great. The high was being at the helm in stonking winds, the lows were cleaning out the heads and the deep clean, but it has to be done!”

If you think you’ve got what it takes to race around the world, click here to request further information on the Clipper Race.