Old Pulteney takes taste of wick to the world

Scotland's only entry into the world's longest round the world sailing challenge was officially revealed today as sixty international crew from the Clipper Round the World Race were piped on board the Old Pulteney yacht at St Katharine Docks in London.

Led by their skipper Patrick van der Zijden - known as the 'flying Dutchman' but today wearing a traditional Highland kilt in honour of sponsor and 'maritime malt' Old Pulteney single malt Scotch whisky - the boat was then christened by Clipper Race founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and Old Pulteney Senior Brand Manager Margaret Mary Clarke. 

On christening the boat with Old Pulteney 12 Year Old, Sir Robin commented: 'I am very pleased to officially launch Old Pulteney today. Their sponsorship of the Clipper Race truly cements them as the genuine 'Maritime Malt'. As a first time team sponsor, we welcome them aboard and wish them a safe and successful journey.” 

Margaret Mary Clarke added: 'This is a thrilling day for Old Pulteney and we are extremely proud to see our boat take its place amongst the Clipper fleet as we get ready for the start of the race on Sunday. With Old Pulteney growing in popularity in markets all over the world, it's very fitting for us to be taking a dram in such spectacular style to ports around the globe. We wish Patrick and our crew the very best of luck as they set out on their exciting voyage.'

Over 650 crew members from over 40 nationalities are set to take part in Clipper 2013-14 Race, which starts Sunday, 1 September from St Katharine Dock, London.

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