The event was held by Ocean Youth Trust Ireland (OYTI) which has entered the ship ‘Lord Rank’ as a Belfast supported entry and hope to get 60 young people from all backgrounds throughout Northern Ireland as crew members.
Speaking at the event the Minister said: “This challenging and adventurous project is a chance of a lifetime and an excellent development opportunity which is open to young people regardless of gender or background. There are opportunities for those with or without sailing qualifications, which will give a chance to all young people interested in sailing.”
The Minister concluded: “I would encourage everyone to take part in sport and this opportunity offers the benefits of learning life changing skills such as self confidence and mutual tolerance. In addition, young people will also visit parts of the world which they may not otherwise have visited. I have no doubt that the experiences and memories gained will have a lasting impact which will be treasured for years to come.”
The Tall ships Atlantic challenge 2009 is a race for International tall ships which are crewed by young people. The race will commence in April 2009 from Vigo, Spain, stopping a various countries during the four months race and finishing in Belfast in August 2009.
Notes to Editors:
- Further details of the challenge can be found on the Ocean Youth Trust Ireland website
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