Guernsey welcomed hundreds of young sailors as they prepare for the Association of Sail Training Organisations (ASTO) Guernsey to Poole Small Ships Race 2024, inspired by the RNLI’s 200th Anniversary.
The event saw a fleet of 13 charity sailing yachts arrive in Guernsey on Saturday 10th August and they will spend a few days in St Peter Port before the race on Tuesday.
ASTO comprises more than 30 sailing charities which operate a fleet of more than 50 sail training vessels. Each year, these organisations enable over 12,000 young people and individuals with additional needs, to embark on life-changing adventures at sea.
The competing yachts are crewed by 155 people, of whom more than two thirds are aged under 25, with experienced skippers and mates onboard. After arrival at the Swan Pontoons, they will undergo mandatory safety checks, skipper briefings and race registration.
Kerry McMillan, ASTO’s Chief Executive said: “We are excited to return to Guernsey – it’s the first time since the 2007 ASTO Torquay – Guernsey Small Ships Race! Sail Training is so much more than just learning to sail – it instils qualities that can make a real difference to everyday life, such as confidence, teamworking, communication, resilience, adaptability and responsibility.
“The race provides the perfect opportunity to re-establish the connection between Guernsey’s young people and offshore sail training organisations, working together to broaden the horizons of young people.”
Guernsey local, John Elliott is lending his skills as the Race Director for ASTO, said: “Its great to be involved in an event that opens up sail training for so many young people. We’re looking forward to the race start on Tuesday but are monitoring the weather and wind direction carefully before the exact course is confirmed.”
On Monday 12th August the crew were visited by the charity’s Patron, HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh, who was in Guernsey to visit the fleet. She planned to join the crew on one of the yachts during a short training sail and attend an informal reception at the Guernsey Yacht Club before her departure.
The race is scheduled to start at 2.00pm on Tuesday (13th August) just off Castle Cornet. For many young participants, this race marks their first sea voyage. They will navigate one of the UK’s most challenging routes aboard robust vessels. The first of the fleet are expected to arrive in Poole Quay Boat Haven by Thursday (15th August), depending on the weather conditions. Upon arrival, the crew will spend the day at the RNLI College on Friday 16th August before heading back to their homes around the UK.
Ross Coppolo, Chief Operating Officer, Guernsey Ports commented “We are thrilled to host ASTO’s fleet. This event promotes teamwork, social skills and resilience, while fostering a respect for the marine environment. Any initiative that makes sailing more accessible for all is a worthy cause.”
