Clipper skipper appointed

Simon Rowell joins the 2005 OKI European Challenge

Simon Rowell, Jersey Clipper’s victorious skipper in the 2002/3 Clipper Round The World Race, has joined the organising team behind the OKI European Challenge, in which 15 identical Beneteau 47.7 yachts will race around Europe in the summer of 2005.

After discussions concluded at the recent Schroders London International Boat Show, Rowell, 37, a Class 4 Ocean Yachtmaster Instructor, has been appointed as Head of Sailing - a role which will see him oversee the training syllabus being put in place for the crew members who will sail on the fleet of Beneteaus, as well as looking after the on-going maintenance of the yachts during the race itself.

The OKI European Challenge will start from Poland in June 2005, with stopovers in 11 European ports before finishing in Monte Carlo in October - the race includes taking part in Skandia Cowes Week and the Rolex Fastnet 2005. To take part in the event costs £9,950 (less than £100 per day). Crew members need no previous sailing experience and will be fully trained to compete in the event.