The Cruising Association, which has Sir Robin Knox-Johnston as its patron, has organised for a handful of members to sail alongside Suhaili for the final passage into Les Sables d'Olonne
Around 10 lucky Cruising Association (CA) members will be given the chance to sail their boats alongside Suhaili as she enters Les Sables d’Olonne ahead of the start of the Golden Globe Race.
The suggestion came from the CA’s patron, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, who will be accompanying the race’s 19 skippers as they make their way from Falmouth to the start line in France.
All the entrants will be leaving Falmouth on 14 June following the Suhaili Parade of Sail to mark Sir Robin’s achievement in winning the original 1968/69 race.
Robin Knox-Johnston wins the 1968/69 Golden Globe Race. Credit: Bill Rowntree/PPL
A suitable rallying point is being arranged for the CA boats for the final passage into Les Sables.
Pierre Lambot, the CA’s Honorary Local Representative in Les Sables d’Olonne has been the CA’s liaison with the marina and, through his efforts, the CA has now received confirmation from the Mayor of Les Sables d’Olonne that the 10 or so CA boats escorting Suhaili to Les Sables are welcome.
It is anticipated that the majority of the CA boats will be members of the CA’s Biscay Section and therefore their boats will already be in French waters.
The Cruising Association (CA) is also hosting events in Plymouth on 8-10 June, to mark the 50th anniversary of the start of the race.
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Organisers have scheduled in a welcoming pontoon party for around 30 participants at Plymouth Yacht Haven and a dinner in Plymouth Yacht Haven, which will be attended by Sir Robin
The event also highlights the recent re-launch of the CA’s South-West Section.
The CA’s president, Judith Grimwade, said: ‘We are extremely proud to have Sir Robin as our Patron and this really is a golden opportunity for the CA and its members to be involved in a very special and historic occasion. We anticipate a good turn-out!’