Tourism support of £40,000 helps hoist City of Culture sail for Clipper round the World yacht race

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has supported Londonderry’s participation in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 2011–2012, with funding of £40,000.

In addition to becoming an official host port, the 2013 UK City of Culture will have an official boat in the 40,000 mile Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. The vessel will be one of 10 identical racing yachts competing in the 11 month event.

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board provided financial assistance of £40,000 to help secure the bid for the Londonderry stopover.

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster said: “This is a huge coup for Londonderry as hosting a leg of this internationally renowned race will not only place the city on a global stage, but it will also provide opportunities to promote Northern Ireland around the world.

“As destinations along the route include South Africa, Brazil, Australia, Singapore, New Zealand and the USA, significant international recognition will be derived from having one of the yachts branded with a Northern Ireland theme.”

The Clipper Race was set up by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first man to sail solo, non-stop around the world, in order to give ordinary people the chance to do something truly extraordinary. On board the yacht will be a team of people from all walks of life, many of whom have never sailed before and who are taking on the challenge of a lifetime.

Arlene Foster added: “The draft Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland aims to double the income earned from tourism by 2020. Events such as this one will help to achieve these targets through attracting new visitors, creating unique experiences and by making it easier for visitors to spend more.”

The Minister concluded: “It is not just the crew onboard the yacht who will be racing hard, but also those onshore who will be working to attract new business investments and visitors to Northern Ireland. I would encourage everyone to get behind them in their efforts.”

Notes to editors:

1. The Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race will start in August 2011 and return in September 2012. It is the world’s longest ocean race and will take in 13 countries on six continents.
2. Londonderry will be the first city in Northern Ireland to host a leg of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
3. For further information visit Clipper Round the World website
4. All media queries should be directed to the DETI Press Office on 028 9052 9297. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.