20 Young Irish explorers set sail for Tall Ships Races

 
 

20 young explorers from all over Ireland set sail for an unforgettable experience as part of the Tall Ships Races 2010.

Along with young people from over thirty countries, the group took part in Sail Training International’s Sail Training programme, which took them on their race journey from Kristiansand in Norway to Hartlepool in the UK.

Becoming a crew member on one of the ships is not only a fantastic adventure, but is also seen as hugely positive in the personal development of those taking part. Being part of the crew will take plenty of discipline and hard work, but lifelong friendships will be forged and there is plenty of fun to be had on board.

Waterford City Council has sponsored half of the voyage costs for each trainee for 2010. Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Mary Roche who is a staunch supporter of the sail training programme for young people said, “We recognise the sail training programme and the development of young people as among the most important aspects of The Tall Ships Races. Supporting Irish sail trainees in 2010 marks our commitment to sail training and indeed, the return of the Tall Ships Races to Waterford in 2011.”

Pictured; Some of the group gearing up for their trip on the Quayside in Waterford.

 
 
After two years of preparations involving an estimated 13,760 hours of voluntary effort, Waterford successfully hosted The Tall Ships Races 2011 from June 30-July 3.
It’s estimated that 500,000 people enjoyed the spectacle in the city and along the Suir Estuary. To all those individuals and organisations that made this huge international event possible and to the people of Waterford who embraced the occasion brilliantly – thank you. To those who visited Waterford, we look forward to welcoming you back soon and invite you to visit www.discoverwaterfordcity.ie to keep up-to-date on what’s happening in Ireland’s oldest city. To the sail training family at the heart of The Tall Ships Races, we look forward to your return!

Here we showcase a small selection of Dylan Vaughan’s photography from four magical days.