Opportunity offered to race Gipsy Moth IV

The Gipsy Moth Trust is offering a once in a lifetime opportunity to crew and race the yacht later this summer

Gipsy Moth IV
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The Gipsy Moth Trust, the charity managing the historic yacht Gipsy Moth IV, in which Sir Francis Chichester completed his notable circumnavigation in 1967, is offering a once in a lifetime opportunity for a select number of people to crew and race the yacht later this summer.

To mark the 50th anniversary of her iconic trip around the world, which commenced in August 1966, Gipsy Moth IV will be circling Britain in 2017 crewed by ex-servicemen and women to raise money for the great charity Help for Heroes. A fundraising competition is being offered in conjunction, where the four highest individual fundraisers will get the chance to crew Gipsy Moth IV for the Dartmouth to Gosport ASTO race 18-24 August 2016. Additionally, the three sailing or yacht clubs that collectively raise the most money can nominate two crew members each, to participate in the ASTO small ships race in the Solent on 1 October 2016.

Supporters can raise money in any way they choose, from a sponsored sail or walk, or by signing up ‘Friends of Gipsy Moth’, a donation programme to the Trust. Closing date for entries is 31st July 2016.

Gipsy Moth IV set a series of records during Sir Francis Chichester’s voyage 50 years ago, including the fastest round-the-world voyage by a small vessel, the longest non-stop passage by a small vessel, and the then longest single-handed passage. She is now owned by the charitable trust created to preserve her in sailing condition and promote charitable activities.

Eileen Skinner, Founder Trustee of the Gipsy Moth Trust, said:

‘We really hope to get as many people as possible involved in the celebrations around the 50th anniversary of Sir Francis Chichester’s remarkable voyage. We are raising money for two fantastic charities and in the process giving the public an amazing opportunity to meet the challenge and experience just a taste of Sir Francis Chichester’s extraordinary achievement.’

Participating crew for Dartmouth to Gosport race must be aged between 16 and 25 on the 18 August 2016 whereas crew must be aged between 14 and 25 on 30 September 2016 to participate in the ASTO Solent Small Ships Race.