Switzerland to host first recruitment event next week

The first Swiss Clipper Race recruitment event will be held in Zurich next week following on from the success of the Switzerland team in this race.

A presentation will be held at Radisson Blu hotel at Zurich Airport between 1900 and 2100 on Wednesday 26 March.

David Cusworth, recruitment manager and former round the world crew member, will give a talk to those interested on finding out what it is like to participate in the world’s longest ocean race.

There are nine Swiss amateur sailors on the Clipper 2013-14 Race and seven are signed up already for the Clipper 2015-16 Race.

Switzerland, skippered by Vicky Ellis, is supported by Swiss Sailing for the first time in the race’s history.

Vincent Hagin, president of Swiss Sailing said: “The Clipper Race is an opportunity for everyone, whether members or non-members of Swiss Sailing, experienced or novices, to participate in an unforgettable adventure.

“This project contributes to our ambition to develop and widen the sport of sailing in Switzerland. Sailing is a multi-faceted sport, offering new horizons and challenges, testing both individuals and teams to their limits against the natural elements. By participating in the Clipper Race you will get a feeling for ocean racing like that of renowned Swiss sailors, such as Dominique Wavre in the Vendee Globe, whilst making lifelong friends and contributing to the success of your crew.”

Switzerland has a long tradition with famous and successful sailors who have participated in regattas like the Whitbread Round the World Race (Pierre Fehlmann) and the Vendée Globe (Dominique Wavre and Bernard Stamm).

Swiss Sailing is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2014.

Switzerland also carries the logo of Mercy Ships, raising awareness for the hospital ship charity which provides free surgery and medical care to people in need around the world. So far, 17 lives have been saved from the efforts of the crew who are fundraising as they race round the world.