The Route
The brave crews of the ten 68 foot racing yachts leave Southampton to embark on their 11 month and 40,000 mile race in August 2011, to return in July 2012 in pursuit of the prestigious Clipper trophy.
Expertise will be tested to the max as crews encounter storm force winds, challenging seas, the relief of the trade winds, the tropical heat and ice cold conditions. They will have to overcome unpredictable and frustrating seas as they compete in a combination of long ocean races lasting several weeks, to short sprints which test technical ability.
The racing route takes crews from England to mainland Europe, across the Atlantic Ocean to South America and then on to South Africa, Western Australia, New Zealand and back to the East coast of Australia. The race then heads North and West to Singapore & China before teams cross the Pacific Ocean to California. Continuing south, through the Panama canal, then up to New York and Canada before the final leg across the Atlantic Ocean, returning to Europe. Rotary Aquaspeed, the official timekeeper of the race will be there every second of the way.
This extra-ordinary challenge visits 13 countries and spans 40,000 miles. Along the way the crew's determination and bravery will be rewarded by the breathtaking scenery, rich culture and amazing wildlife such as albatrosses, dolphins and whales. Follow the experiences, the highs and lows of the Rotary ambassadors on their blog.
Visit the official Clipper Race website for results