Clipper Race - The Training

Since Clipper Ventures formed in 1995 over 1000 crew members have participated in the training program. Throughout this period the program has been continually developed to ensure that all crews receive training second to none. Whilst the training provides everything the crewmember will need not only to get the most from The Clipper 05/06 Race but also to become a safe and competent sailor, the standard will depend upon the crewmember's commitment in terms of time and effort. The RYA accredited training centre can award Competent Crew certification to those successfully completing Part A training, however individual crewmembers are encouraged to pursue the full RYA sail training syllabus in addition to the program listed below.

The Courses
A crewmember will receive a minimum of 19 days of race training split into the following three parts:

Part A
An intensive seven-day training session covering basic seamanship and the skills needed to live and work afloat. A combination of day sailing and longer offshore passages will prepare the crewmembers to take their place aboard an ocean racing yacht with confidence, competence and safety.

Part B
The next seven-day course will consolidate the lessons learnt in Part A and begin to develop the skills necessary to race safely and competitively offshore. Again the week will be divided between inshore and offshore sailing with the emphasis on team work and competitive racing techniques.

Part C
Once assigned to the team, this 5-day race training session will include a 2 to 3 day offshore race enabling each crewmember to experience the pressures of ocean racing within a structured training environment, giving a real taste of things to come. Crewmembers taking part in the whole race will be required to join two Part C courses.

In the run up to the start of the race, time will be set aside for the teams to prepare themselves and their yachts. All crewmembers will be expected to participate in this preparatory period, and the expected time relates to the amount of the race each person is participating in. Training courses for selected crewmembers will also be held in subjects such as sail repair, rigging, electronic instrumentation, communications, engine maintenance, first aid at sea and yacht husbandry.


Source: www.clipper-ventures.co.uk