A homecoming date has been fixed for the 05-06 Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.
The 10-strong international fleet, which suffered a month’s delay for repairs in the Philippines, are to complete the world’s longest yachting race on the River Mersey at around 12 noon on Saturday, July 29.
The Liverpool Culture Company is preparing to roll out the red carpet for what will be an emotional finale to the most dramatic race in clipper’s history, which began in Liverpool last September.
Liverpool’s Lord Mayor will lead a civic welcome with aerobatic displays and street entertainment planned before the final prize-giving in Salthouse Dock at 4pm.
Thousands of people are expected to throng the Mersey and they can expect a tense climax as the leading three yachts in the overall standings – westernaustralia.com, Liverpool 08 and Durban – all have a chance of winning the coveted Clipper Cup.
Currently competing Leg 5 in the northern Pacific with 2,000 miles to Vancouver, Durban is second, Liverpool 08 third and westernaustralia.com trailing in fifth. Leg 6 to Jamaica is to begin on May on May 14 and Leg 7 to Liverpool is to begin on June 20 via New York and Jersey.
Professor Drummond Bone, Chairman of Liverpool Culture Company, said: ”It’s great news to finally have a homecoming date for the race. We can now prepare to give the fleet the welcome they deserve. I’m sure the Liverpool public will be out in force to support them after what has been a real roller coaster experience for the crews.”
For the latest 05-05 Clipper Race news visit www.clipper-ventures.com
