​Seattle Update

Experienced sailor David Hartshorn will take over as Clipper Race Skipper of Seattle, to lead the team for the remainder of its circumnavigation. This follows the departure of Skipper Ben Keitch, who is leaving the role in Punta del Este.

David Hartshorn, from Chepstow, Wales, has over 84,000 nautical miles in his log book, many of which have been accrued from his time with the Clipper Race. A familiar face to many, this will be the third edition that David has been involved in. He took part in the 2015-16 edition as crew on Leg 6, The Mighty Pacific, then joined as Race Skipper in the 2017-18 edition.

Formerly one of the most senior Police Officers in the UK, since the conclusion of the last edition, David has continued his second career as an RYA Sailing Instructor. As part of this he has also been involved in coaching future Race Crew as a Clipper Race Training Skipper, most recently overseeing the latest Level 4 training of Clipper 2019-20 Race Crew.

David will join the Seattle team in Punta del Este. The fleet is currently berthed at the Yacht Club Punta del Este following the conclusion of Race 2 and ahead of the start Race 3, on 23 October to Cape Town.