Clarke goes shorthanded

Shore crew for many serious campaigns, Simon Clarke is to set sail in the TJV's 30 strong Class 40 fleet

Simon Clarke has been at the forefront of the international ocean racing circuit for over 20 years and is a popular and highly respected individual. His dedication, passion and legendary attention to detail have helped him gain unparalleled experience and he has often been the unsung hero of many notable campaigns including Hugo Boss, Bounder and Team Tonic.

However, the time has come for Clarke, 42, to fulfil his own lifelong ambition. His desire to challenge the short-handed sailing world will become a reality, when on 3 November he will be on the start line of the Transat Jacques Vabre in Le Havre in his new Simon Rogers-designed Class 40.

Clarke will tackle the course between Le Havre and the finish in Salvador de Bahia, Brazil in early December doublehanded with his team mate New Zealand yachtsman Dave Lindsay. With over thirty Class 40s entered Clarke will need to draw on every ounce of his experience to keep up with his rivals.

Clarke’s Class 40 has been specifically designed as powerful reaching boat for the TJV and then the Route de Rhum. The sail plan also allows for highly competitive upwind and light-airs sailing and will be an ideal platform for corporate guests once a title sponsor is secured.

“I am thoroughly looking forward to every aspect of this race and I am particularly keen to prove my ability to myself and others. I have good stamina, am self reliant and extremely competitive. I am confident in my knowledge of the boat and the course but I am prepared for the odd curved ball. It wouldn’t be a yacht race without an incident or two!” commented Clarke.

‘Clarkee’ is aiming to raise money for CLIC Sargent, the UK’s leading children’s cancer charity, as he undertakes his challenge. It is a charity that he feels reaches everyone and that he is particularly proud to support. Anyone wishing to make a contribution should contact Clarke Offshore Racing at gabclarke@yahoo.co.uk.