Brave men and women

Challenge Business on skipper recruitment drive for next year's Ireland Challenge

With berths selling out fast for the Ireland Challenge, Challenge Business has turned its attentions to recruiting its next set of professional skippers, one of whom will lead their yacht to victory in the inaugural race at Easter.

Skippers are being asked to apply for just six positions for the race, which starts on the 22 April 2006.

The race will be a non-stop circumnavigation of the Emerald Isle, starting and finishing from the exuberant capital, Dublin.

Applicants will need a minimum of 25,000 nautical miles under their belt, have their RYA Yachtmaster and Commercial Endorsement (or MCA equivalent), a good technical overview of yachts and on board equipment and a proven track record of ocean/offshore racing.

A strong sailing pedigree will not be the only requirements for the race, as Cal Tomlinson, Challenge Business’ Sailing Manager - who will short list the final candidates - explains: “In addition to good sailing skills, candidates will need to demonstrate total commitment to onboard safety and crew care. A high percentage of crew will never have sailed before they start their training so will rely heavily on their skippers for total direction and leadership.

“All the selected skippers will undergo a two week induction/ training programme enabling them to get to grips with their yachts. I will also be taking the final selection to sea for a two/ three-day trip so they can learn the nuances of the boats under sail.

“We’re looking for some close one-design racing, which has become synonymous within our competitive events. Challenge Business attracts high calibre individuals and has been an Alma Mater for some pretty top profile sailors on today’s various race circuits. Who knows - this season’s racing might generate another.”

The skippers will be each joined by one professional mate and together they will take up to 16 Crew Volunteers around Ireland in what promises to be another captivating Challenge Business event.