Race Two gets off to good start - fleet now heading for Szczecin

Race Two of The Tall Ships' Races got underway at 1000 GMT today on the outer limits of the Swedish archipelago with 90 Tall Ships crossing the start line to head to Szczecin in Poland. Winds were a brisk Force 5 with a blue sky providing first class conditions for the race start.

First across the line in Class A was Dar Mlodziezy (Poland) with Asgard II (Ireland) in second and Eendracht (Netherlands) in third. Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) and Shtandart (Russia) crossed the line before the official start time so will either be awarded standard time penalties or opt to complete a 360 degree turn when safe to do so.

Swedish Class B entries were obviously keen to get going as first across the line in their class was Deodar (Sweden) with Astrid Finne (Sweden) in second and Gratia (Sweden) in third.

The Class C vessels were also extremely keen to get going as a bunch of them crossed the line together with the smoke of the gun still in the air. First across the line was Akela (Russia) with Dar Szczecina (Poland) very close behind and Dar Natury (Poland) inches behind her. The Class D vessels also started in a bunch, each trying to get ahead of their competitors but Flora (Russia) just made it over the line in front of Tomidi (Belgium). It seems it is going to be a fast and furious race!

The first race report will be published tomorrow morning, 1 August at 0700 GMT when the fleet tracking will be available.

Amerigo Vespucci Nominated Unicef “Goodwill Ambassador”

Amerigo Vespucci, the Italian Military Navy training ship, has become the “Goodwill Ambassador” for UNICEF Italian Committee to transmit a message of peace, cohabitation and mutual respect to all young people, proving solidarity and support to the UNICEF initiative.

The ordination ceremony, which took place this morning, onboard the ship in Molo Vecchio at Porto Antico, chose the event of The Tall Ships’ Races 2007 Mediterranea to make the presentation.
Participating in the ceremony were the Undersecretary of Defence, On. Giovanni Lorenzo Forcieri, the Navy Chief of Staff, Admiral Paolo La Rosa and the UNICEF Italian Committee President, Mr. Antonio Sclavi.

Guayas (Ecuador) Awarded Coveted Friendship Trophy

The Sail Training International Friendship Trophy is presented by Sail Training International, and awarded to the ship which, in the opinion of the captains and crews of all the ships taking part in the Tall Ships’ Races series, has done most to promote international friendship and understanding.

This year the ship Guayas, of Ecuador, who managed to win the hearts of many with her colourful presence and her good spirited officers and crew, was selected as the winner of this much coveted award.

Pandora (Italy) Sweeps Prizes

Pandora (Italy) has won The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 in Genoa. Not only did the Italian Class B boat win both first in Class and first overall, much to the great delight of her crew and the Genovese crowds who have come to visit her, she also won The Honourable Company Master Mariners Shield and The Series Winners in Class B Award.

The Honourable Company Master Mariners Shield is awarded to the ship which has demonstrated skill in seamanship by effecting repairs incurred at the start of the first race.

Photo: Captain Marco de Amici with the happy crew of Pandora

Owned by Marco de Amici from Milan, this 19.9 metres topsail schooner, with its unmistakable classical features, had won also the first leg from Alicante to Barcelona, despite having a young crew of STAI trainees on their first sailing experience.

“Our secret has been to hang in and never give up”, Captain de Amici commented at the end of the Regatta. “During this Race we got these results because we managed to create a very special complicity among the crew’s members. In Tall Ships’ Races the most important thing is friendship: no boat is better than its Captain and its crew!”

Pandora is a boat frequently involved in STAI activities addressed to young people, and in particular to students of Genovese schools and of the Naval College San Giorgio. Its original design closely recalls small naval vessels of some centuries ago: that is why Pandora has been chosen for some cinematic productions such as Hornblower, Napoleon and for two episodes of the Italian series Elisa di Rivombrosa, as well as some appearances in advertisings and historical commemoration.

Other Race Results are as follows:

Class D
1^st on CT Pamadica Italy

2^nd onCT Etoile Horizon France

3^rd on CT Stella Polare Italy

Class C
1^st on CT Viva Latvia

2^nd on CT Sarie Marais UK
3^rd on CT Zenobe Gramme Belgium

Class B

1^st on CT Pandora Italy

2^nd on CT Jolie Brise UK

3^rd on CT Far Barcelona Spain

Class A

1^st on CT Stad Amsterdam Netherlands

2^nd on CT Libertad Argentina

3^rd on CT Mir Russia

First Ship across the Finish Line (Line Honours) Capricia, Italy

First Overall on Corrected Time for Race Two Pandora, Italy

Stad Amsterdam Waves Many Flags

Arguably one of the prettiest vessels in the Tall Ships’ Races fleet, Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands) is without a doubt, the ship with the most nationalities on board. Boasting 44 trainees, from 16 nations, the Dutch ship is something of its own league of nations.

Captain Richard Slootweg said he had had a very positive reaction to his mixed fleet, “There were more positive surprises than I ever expected with so many nationalities. It was very nice, with so many nations, watching them get along with each other so well. There were no problems at all and that really came as a surprise.”

All of the young people on board are employees of the same company, Randstad, a consultancy firm for temporary workers. The unique thing was that they had each won the opportunity to participate in The Tall Ships’ Races onboard Stad Amsterdam, by being the top sales person in their own particular company branch.

Keiji Oshima, from Japan, was top sales person from a team of 40 in his office. He admitted that it was his first sailing experience and that he had felt a little seasick at first but that, in the end, it had been fantastic.

Pinar Avsar is a beautiful, petit 25 year old from Turkey that claims she learned to be tough! “I may be tiny but now I’m tough,” she said. “I have learned not to be tired and to work with a team. Most of us had never sailed before and we still came in first. That’s super.”

Another young Turkish woman, Zeynep Yazicioglu, said, “I was terrified of heights but I made it up the mast and now I am not afraid of anything. However, we will all cry tomorrow when we have to leave. We have made some wonderful friends and all plan to stay in touch.”

Sebastian John comes from near Mumbai, India and said his most outstanding memory was that they all became a family. “The integration of culture was wonderful. There was not a nationality issue but all of these people coming together, to do one work, to achieve one goal – To Win!”

Captain’s Dinner a Gala Affair

The Gala Dinner to honour the Captains of the fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 in Genoa was held in splendor last night at the magnificent Palazzo Ducale. After more than seven centuries as the Republic’s seat of power and Doge’s residence, Palazzo Ducale was re-inaugurated in 1992 after a ten year structural restoration programme.

After a first course of the traditional Genovese Trofee Pesto, the group was treated to a poached salmon with lemon sauce followed by a decorative ice cream parfait. All of the courses were accompanied by traditional local wines.

The Mayor of Genoa, Marta Vincenzi greeted the guests and welcomed them to the city. Between courses the group was entertained by a marauding group of women pirates performing a play about the history of the women of the sea.

The magnificent landmark has been returned to the city not solely as a historical building, but as a living structure, a centre for ideas and cultural and social initiatives for the city. The Palazzo has also been the site for important world political events, such as the G8 summit of 2001.

The fleet leaves Stockholm in grand Parade of Sail

The Tall Ships' Races fleet left Stockholm today in a grand Parade of Sail that was watched by thousands of people. The Swedish ships Gladan and Falken led the way with the Norwegian Statsraad Lehmkuhl leading the Class A ships past the ferry terminals and cruise liners and out towards the race start area.

All the quaysides in Stockholm and every available vantage point in Stockholm and along the route was lined with thousands of people, happy that the sun was shining so they could watch the fleet leave. As the ships passed the ferries and cruise ships, they greeted each other with loud ships' horns, while the young trainees on board would wave and shout at the crowds.

The crew of Statsraad Lehmkuhl manned the yards and sang shanties as they pulled away from the quay, while the Mexican crew on Cuauhtemoc manned the yards and sang to loud accompanying music, with the officers on deck waving their caps to the crowds.

The trainees and ships' crews have had a wonderful time in Stockholm and loved the hospitality, good food and fantastic scenery and are preparing themselves for the challenges of the race ahead.

The fleet will now make their way through the Archipelago overnight to the race start area, around five miles off Almagrundet . The race will then start at 1200 local time (1000 GMT) on Tuesday 31 July.

Thousands turn out to watch crew parade in Stockholm

Stockholm was transformed today from a quiet Sunday to a very noisy city with thousands and thousands of people crowding every available street to visit the fleet and see the ever-popular Crew Parade.

The crews gathered outside the Royal Palace and paraded around central Stockholm before finishing in Kungstradgarden for a sports prize giving as well as the final of the Baltic Song Contest, which saw many ships putting in groups to sing.

A total of 32 teams entered for the football competition which was won by Dar Mlodziezy (Poland). Six finalists were then invited to sing in front of a panel of judges and the watching crews for the honour of winning the Baltic Song Contest. Performers included Navigator (Finland), Tunas Samudera (Malaysia), Cuauhtemoc (Mexico), Kruzenshtern (Russia), and Kvartsita (Sweden).

After a short interval for the judges to go off and deliberate, the winners were announced as Cuauhtemoc who gave a second version of their rendition of 'La Bamba', to which all the crowd joined in and cheered. The ship has in fact been practicing their entertainment skills all week since arriving in the port, epitimising the spirit of The Tall Ships' Races with their endless energy and goodwill.

Sports Day Draws the Crowds

Despite searing heat, more than 600 crew members from 23 different ships have participated in today’s sports events. The events including volleyball, basketball, rowing, tug-o-war, 5-man soccer teams, tennis, swimming and rugby were held in various venues across the city.

Eight different city federations including CONI (organization responsible for sports) have worked to create a full programme of competitive sports. Each sporting event will be awarded individual prizes plus an overall prize for the ship winning the most prizes in all of the events.

Tonight there will be a synchronized swimming exhibition by Ampi Molassana at the Porto Antico swimming pool.

Physics Under Sail

It almost sounds an impossible concept, but after only a brief time aboard Pogoria (Poland) speaking with Dr. Jan Grabski, Warsaw Technical University and Director of Science Maciej Geller, Warsaw University, one starts to see the logic of ‘Physics Under Sail’.

“What we are about is not sail training to train sailors for sailing, but team work in a different environment,” said Doctor Geller. “This is a new form of creative cooperation. We have new aims. We want to share with the public the lessons of physics and how they are harnessed to sailing and sailing ships. We have an experimental station onboard the ship and we hope to involve visitors to take an active part in those experiments.”

“There are 13 students onboard Pogoria as trainees and each one is enthusiastically dedicated to the project,” added Dr. Geller. “Our students work very hard and we thought this would be a very good experience for them. It helps them to understand sailing and physics and they in turn can explain it to the public. The physical experiments are connected to sailing, like microwave, ultrasound, simple mechanics and the laws of Newton.

“Usually students of physics think it is very difficult but physics surround us everyday in our universe. If you understand what is going on in a physical manner, you can relate in a more practical way, like ropes and sails and why you pull in a certain way. Through physics you can learn to do it better.”

Student trainee Piotr Podziemski said, “To put all the ideas we learn to good use – in this case sailing – we can explain some physical ideas and some technical things and demonstrate how to improve those things using the laws of physics. The whole idea is to show other boats, crews and the general public that physics is not untouchable. This way we can enjoy the wind, the sun and physics!”

For a demonstration of just what the students are trying to say, stop by and see them on Pogoria. “We think we can reach other people since once they see some of our experiments they can understand because the experiments are simple and often very funny,” remarked Michael Oszmaniec. “We think this has been very successful and the reaction of the people has been great.”

Captains Welcomed at Palazzo Tursi

After a Flag Raising ceremony at Guardia Costiera to officially open The Tall Ships’ Races in Genoa, the fleet Captains were hosted to a welcome address and cocktail party at historic Pallazzo Tursi by Mayor of the City, Marta Vincenzi.

In her address she commented that, “Genoa is proud to welcome The Tall Ships’ Races and all of the Captains to a city that lives on the sea, for the sea and of the sea!” She further added that, “the cultural dimension of the event is a symbol of the wish for peace through cooperation and understanding.”

The reception, held in the garden of Pallazzo Tursi, is in the heart of Via Garibaldi, once the historical Strada Nuova, the centre of 16^th century aristocratic Genoa. Guests were free to view the Mayor’s rooms and the rooms containing Paganini’s famous “Cannone” violin made by Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesû and other important mementoes of the musician.

Local aperitivi including verdure ripiene, tarta pasqualina, cima and pesto were served with chilled glasses of champagne to a receptive gathering.

Genoa Press Conference is Well Attended

There is already a frenzy of activity both around the port and in the media in anticipation of the arrival of the fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 in Genoa. More than fifty journalists and photographers from across Italy attended this morning’s Press Conference to further promote the event.

Mayor of the City, Marta Vincenzi said that, “By welcoming the Tall Ships’ Races, Genoa strengthens its historical boundary with the sea and, at the same time, boosts its touristic vocation. This will not only be a big celebration for our citizens but a lively event for all tourists and visitors that will make Genoa and the Tall Ships’ Races famous nationwide.”

Margherita Bozzano, Councilor for Regional Liguria Tourism and Sport was equally enthusiastic. “I took part at the beginning of the project and, on behalf of Region of Liguria, had the pleasure to support it from the start. This event will be an occasion to promote the whole region as a fantastic destination, not only for the sea, but also for cultural and sports events.”

It was Peter Newell, Race Director, who pointed out that as important as the event is for the area where it takes place, we must remember that the event is really about the youth that are participating. “The young people that take part in a Tall Ships’ Race learn many things from their experience. They learn not only of the importance of team work but also about self discovery, self motivation and self esteem. We know they will finish their time as a trainee with tremendous memories and will have had a life-changing experience. We hope they will want to come back and take part again.”

Peter Newell went on to remind the meeting that the main trophy for the Race Series was not about racing – it was the coveted Sail Training International Friendship Trophy. This trophy is awarded to the ship which, in the opinion of all the crews in the fleet, has done most to promote international friendship and understanding.

Young Belgian is looking forward to some good sailing

Julian Deleersnyder is just 16 and has just come aboard Antwerp Flyer (Belgium) for the race to Szczecin. Julian is looking forward to the voyage as he has previously only made shorter trips on the lakes in Belgium so he knows this voyage will be more demanding. “I am looking forward to all the navigation that will be required,” Julian says. “On a lake you can just put on the auto pilot and lean back, but that's not something you can do here!” he says looking at a map with the thousands and thousands of islands in the archipelago.

He is also very much looking forward to making friends with the rest of the crew that will come aboard and sail Antwerp Flyer to Poland. “It is great to get to know people of other nationalities as you learn a lot,” he claims. “I was surprised when I arrived here as it is nice and warm because I was expecting snow and ice on all the islands given that we are so far north!” Julian is looking forward to sailing but feels sure there will be some disagreements on board. “Problems like that you just have to solve because in the end we are literally all in the same boat with no possibility to get off when we are far out at sea!”

Julian is hoping to take part in The Tall Ships' Races again next year but would like to see if he can sail on a bigger ship. “There is a wooden ship from Belgium on which the crew is mostly Belgian which I may apply for, but I do prefer ships with mixed nationalities because I think you get more of an experience,” Julian says. There are some things that Julian is not looking forward to and that is if the equipment fails. Right now he is helping to mend a few things that are worn out in order to make sure that they don't break at sea. “And of course I don't look forward to sea sickness, but I have stocked up on pills so I should be alright!” he laughs.

Julian is looking forward to The Tall Ships' Races 2009 when it visits St. Petersburg. “I hope to have my own boat one day but first I have to work hard, educate myself and save money,” he wisely says. The Tall Ships' Races is a great opportunity for all of us youngsters to get practical experience in sailing as well as having a good time.”

Article by Allan Everum

South Africans have fun getting to know other nationalities

South African Sarah Enticott, 22, joined Europa (Netherlands) in Kotka and will sail to Szczecin before returning home. Sarah has some previous sailing experience on small yachts but has never been aboard a Tall Ships before. What she found most amazing was to sail around a coastline so scattered with islands like the Finnish and Swedish archipelagos.

One of the major differences from her previous sailing experience is the amount of team work necessary on a large ship such as Europa. “The crew helped us to form teams by arranging different 'get to know each other' games such as 'name learning games' and many more,” says Sarah.

One enjoyable game they played was a 'country stereotype' game when they each had to list stereotypes from each country, which was particularly fun as there are nine nationalities on board (South Africans, Swedish, Finnish, Belgian, Dutch, British, Polish, French and Irish). Once they presented their stereotypes, the respective country had an opportunity to say whether it was right or wrong.

“Swedes and Fins where perceived as very honest people who keep to the law,” Sarah said. “Whereas South African were not quite as law abiding.” Sarah gave the example of when she was shown around Kotka by a friend in Finland, the South Africans often crossed roads against red lights while the Fins all waited politely on the curb. “Everyone thought that we have elephants and lions in our backyards but we actually we keep them in the game parks!” laughed Sarah.

Many perceived the French to be quite rude but the French sailors aboard explained that this is often because they feel uncomfortable speaking English and so they prefer only helping people who speak French. “But they said they really would like to be encouraged to speak English and to help people. Also,” Sarah continued, “we can confirm that lepricorns running around Ireland is a myth!”

Another way that the crew got to know each other was to have a national dish prepared each evening from the various countries. “One day the Irish prepared an Irish stew and everyone joked that we would get sick. Then later that day we came out into the open sea for the first time entered a brief storm, that made many of us sea sick. It was very unfortunate for the Irish sailors but a good story to bring home!”

Sarah became interested in The Tall Ships' Races when she was looking for an opportunity to meet people from other countries and to go to Europe. “It is also especially interesting for the South Africans aboard because we have been assigned the project of trying to get The Tall Ships' Races to South Africa,” says Sarah. “So we are trying to gather material, experience the event and take pictures to take back home in the hope of building up lots of interest in bringing an event like this to South Africa. I was not originally one of the four young people chosen to come to Europe but then two of them had problems getting visas, which was a huge pity for them, but it gave me the opportunity to come so I'm very grateful for that! I really hope I can get involved in organising The Tall Ships' Races in South Africa sometime.”

Article by Allan Everum

Gladan and Falken celebrate 60 years

Gladan and Falken, the two Swedish naval schooners, celebrate their 60th birthday early next month and today were presented with decanters from Sail Training International to mark the occasion. Captain Jerker Schyllert of Falken and Captain Auders Foghagen of Gladan were presented with the decanters just before the ships left Stockholm for a day's sail with veteran captains on board.

Both ships took part in the very first Tall Ships' Race in 1956 and have been frequent participants in the event ever since. The ships were built in Stockholm so it is fitting that they should celebrate their 60th birthday here.

Meanwhile on the Russian ship Shtandart, Captain Vladimir Martus went out for a day sail with some invited guests on board.

Despite threatening rain, thousands of visitors again crowded along the quaysides to see and visit the ships, with all the restaurants and shops doing a brisk business.

Last night the captains met in the famous Gold Room of the City Hall where they were entertained by two exceptionally talented dancers and then sang to by the world famous Swedish singer, Oscar Bly.

Today many of the crews will take part in a football tournament, while others will make the most of the opportunity to sightsee around this beautiful city.

Opening Ceremony amid sun and showers

In between violent downpours the Lord Mayor of Stockholm, Bo Bladholm, opened The Tall Ships' Races in Stockholm this afternoon. Mr Bladholm welcomed the fleet and hoped that despite the weather the crews would enjoy their stay in Stockholm. Christer Samuelsson, Chairman of the Race Committee for Sail Training International, told the watching crowds that he hoped they would welcome the 3500 crew members and particularly the 2500 young people that come from 34 countries around the world.

Despite the intermittent heavy showers, thousands of people came down to see the ships and walk around the tented village with dozens of different items and lots of places to eat.

Tonight the captains meet for the traditional Captains' Dinner being held at the City Hall while the crews will be entertained along the quayside with music and their own Baltic Song Contest!

Race Report: Friday 27 July 0600 GMT

The Tall Ships' Race in the Mediterranean from Toulon to Genoa has now finished at 0500 GMT this morning 27 July 2007. The time limit for racing has been brought forward because of lack of wind and ships are now free to make their way to Genoa under engine. This was hugely disappointing for the fleet as they were forced to sit out a gale on the original Race start day and were then practically becalmed the following day. It is anticipated that they will all be alongside in Genoa by 1000 GMT tomorrow 28 July.

On the water at the new time limit, the Class D Capricia (Italy) was leading the fleet with Etoile Horizon (France) lying second, Giralda (Spain) third and, closer inshore Stella Polare (Italy) and Viva (Latvia). The leading Class A vessel on the water was Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands) with Mir (Russia) close behind. In Class B Jolie Brise (UK) was ahead of Pandora (Italy) with Belle Poule (France) closer inshore.

Provisional results reflect that the Class A vessels finished with Stad Amsterdam in first, Libertad (Argentina) second and Mir in third. Class B places Pandora in first, Jolie Brise second and Far Barcelona (Spain) third. In Class C Idea Due (Italy), Viva (Latvia) and Sarie Marais (UK) placed first, second and third respectively. In Class D Giralda is first, followed by Pamadica (Italy) second and Etoile Horizon third.

On corrected time the overall provisional positions place Giralda in first, Pandora in second and Idea Due in third.

Three German vessels have different Cruise in Company experiences

Julian Bredemeyer is fascinated! He is on board of Seute Deern (Germany) for the first time, and during the Cruise in Company from Kotka to Stockholm he felt more exhilarated than at any time sailing his dinghy in Hamburg. The 15-year-old went aloft at 0400 in the morning and watched the sunrise: “The landscape, the skärs, the rising sun - it was breathtaking!” Julian said. The 36 metre ship sailed through the Finnish and Swedish archipelago, gibing and taking between the rocks and islands. Even Nina Stellmann, 24, from Bremen, who has sailed on The Tall Ships' Races before, found it challenging to see the small islands and rocks passing so close during the voyage around Mariehamn and Stockholm.

While Seute Deern had gone sailing and partying to Dalarö for a fantastic barbeque, the steel-schooner Johann Smidt went to Mariehamn for two days of sight-seeing. Björn Wanka, 20, thought the rock festival that had been held there was the highlight of the trip since leaving Kotka. Navigating between the islands was an interesting task, claims Björn, who thought that the more complicated the journey, the better!

A third German vessel, Wyvern von Bremen, has participated in The Tall Ships´ Races many times so skipper Steam decided to take some friends from Finland and go off to find hidden anchoring places around the islands of Finland for the cruise in company. The three German crews are now looking forward to seeing the sights of Stockholm.

Torrential rain sent the crowds scuttling into the various hospitality tents this morning as the fleet continued to arrive. The restaurants did a brisk business as everyone sheltered from the rain but sunny spells are forecast for later.

Fleet start to arrive in sunny Stockholm

The Tall Ships' Races fleet started to arrive in Stockholm on Thursday, a day before the official start of the event, under sunny skies and with a large number of visitors gathered. The Swedish naval ships, Gladan and Falken made a spectacular entrance into Stockholm under full sail, criss-crossing each other as they tacked their way to their berthing place along the quayside. A large crowd gathered to watch them and cheered as they came alongside.

Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) also made a spectacular entrance with yards manned and music blaring. The Mexican Ambassador to Stockholm was on hand to welcome them as were many other people. Other early arrivals were Christian Radich (Norway), Eendracht (Netherlands), Kruzenshtern and Sedov (Russia).

Unfortunately the sunny warm days are forecast to come to an end with rain due to come in and stay for the next few days. The city, however, is fully ready for the fleet with everyone eagerly waiting arrival of each vessel. The several thousand crew members will have the opportunity to see around this beautiful city with a number of tours and activities arranged for them.

The official opening ceremony will take place on Friday at 1700 hrs local time.

Race Report: Thursday 26 July 1700 GMT

Northeasterly winds between zero and five knots with a calm sea plague the fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007, from Toulon to Genoa. However, vessels in Class C and D are managing to capture the lightest of airs to pull further ahead from the rest of the fleet.

This afternoon’s report reflects that the positions received by the Communications Officers are not always accurate. This would explain the apparent jump made by Idea Due (Italy) from seventh in class and 28^th overall this morning to first in Class and first overall in this afternoon’s report. Conditions amongst the fleet will be difficult and this will almost certainly apply to communications as well. Ultimately the Communications Officers can only forward the positions they receive to the Race Committee for the results to be calculated.

The Race Committee has decided, in light of the continuing light winds, to bring the race time limits forward. The new time limits are as follows:

Class A 0500 hrs GMT 27 July.

Class B 0530 hrs GMT 27 July.

Class C and D 0545 hrs GMT 27 July

First in Class A on corrected time in this afternoons report is Libertad (Argentina) followed by Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands) and Kaliakra (Bulgaria) in third place.

Jolie Brise (UK) continues to lead Class B on corrected time with Pandora (Italy) in second and Aquarelle (France) in third.

Idea Due (Italy) leads Class C – but see the comment above - with Viva (Latvia) in second and Sarie Marais (UK) in third, whilst in Class D, Giralda (Spain) appears to have moved ahead of Pamadica (Italy) on corrected time and Etoile Horizon (France) is in third.

Laise Dire (France), who missed this morning’s report, has now retired and it has been suggested that she may have put in to Cannes.

Tomorrow morning’s report will be the last as, once the new time limit has been reached, ships will be able to turn on their engines and start motoring towards Genoa. This will allow the whole fleet to be alongside by midday on Saturday, 28 July.

Race Report: Thursday 26 July 0600 GMT

With winds continuing to be elusive, the fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 struggle in their progress toward Genoa. However, the very light airs have allowed the Bermudan rigged vessels in Classes C and D to pull ahead on the water. Etoile Horizon ( France) is out in front with Stella Polare (Italy) close behind. Following on behind these are Pamadica (Italy), Capricia (Italy) and Viva (Latvia).

In Class B, Jolie Brise (UK) is out in front with Belle Poule (France) second on the water and Tho Pa Ga (Spain) running third.

In Class A, Kaliakra (Bulgaria) is out in front but still has 123 miles to go. Libertad (Argentina), Capitan Miranda (Uruguay) and Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands) are all vying for second place on the water. On corrected time for Class A, Stad Amsterdam is first, Mir (Russia) is second and Pogoria (Poland) is third.

Jolie Brise is first on corrected time for Class B with Far Barcelona (Spain) in second and Pandora (Italy) in third. Viva leads Class C on corrected time with Tirant Primer (Spain) second and Xsaar (Belgium) in third. Stella Polare is first on corrected time in Class D with Etoile Horizon second and Pamadica third.

There is a scant 25 miles between the leading Class D and the tailing Class A vessel. This is because the winds are light in strength and variable in direction. The forecast predicts nothing better in the next 24 hours.

Fleet relax in Mariehamn

As many as 55 ships from The Tall Ships' Races stopped off in Mariehamn, Åland, during the cruise-in-company en route to Stockholm. The city had arranged a number of activities for the fleet which encouraged many to stop off there and enjoy the fun and relaxation.

Amongst the games and activities was a football match in which the Mexican ship Cuauhtemoc fielded a talented team which challenged a team made up from European ships. The Mexicans made short work of the Europeans winning 4-0! Other activities were an orientation competition 'Get the Point', a timed jigsaw competition, a darts match and a local game which is hard to translate into English but appeared to be a competition to see who could knock over the most amount of small wooden men!

The activities were organised by the Åland Yacht Club, which has been in existence for over 110 years. A group of 70 volunteers from the club, led by Pontus Kikala, Chairman of the Committee, helped sort out the entertainment and liaison system helping the ships with all their requirements while they were in port.

The Chairman of the Tourist Association said she expected the city to receive more than 40,000 more tourists during the week that would normally visit at this time of year. The first ships arrived during Sunday and the last will leave today by 4pm local time in order to make the journey to Stockholm to arrive by midday 27 July.

Race Report: 1700 GMT Wednesday 25 July

Because of the lack of wind, it is a close run race for The Tall Ships' Race Fleet leaving Toulon on their way to Genoa. With barely a whisper between them, the front runners in Class A are: Amerigo Vespucci (Italy), Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands), Libertad (Argentina) and Pogoria (Poland).

In Class B, Pandora (Italy) leads on corrected time with Far Barcelona (Spain) in second, Anthea (France) third and Jolie Brise (UK) in fourth.

Photo: Pogoria (Poland)

In Class C, Sarie Marais (UK), Xsaar (Belgium) and Viva (Latvia) lead the class while in Class D Pamadica (Italy) leads Stella Polare (Italy) and Giralda (Spain).

Le Don Du Vent (France) did not make it to the start line because her crew of trainees that had booked to come on board in Toulon failed to appear. Captain Philippe Derain spent yesterday trying hard to find the necessary ten young people to make up his crew in order to join the race fleet. Sail Training International's Racing and Sailing Rules allow ships to start the Race within 24 hours of the start time for their class, so Le Don Du Vent has until 1130 hrs GMT, 26 July, to cross the start line.

Weather predictions for 26 July show the wind starting in the southwest, going easterly by mid morning and then going back to the southwest again by evening. Winds speeds are predicted to around five to seven knots, so progress will continue to be slow. The patience of captains and crews alike will be put to the test during the night hours.

Close Start at Toulon

As gale force winds delayed the start yesterday to The Tall Ships' Races Mediterranea 2007, new arrangements had to be made to start the Race today, 25 July. The new start time had been provisionally set for 0800 GMT and the French Navy, on very short notice, generously provided a start vessel for the Race Committee, as yesterday's ship had been re-deployed.

As the start vessels deployed to the start area today it became clear that a further delay would be necessary due to lack of wind. By 0700 GMT the Race Committee decided to postpone the start by two hours. The whole Race Fleet, who had spent the night in the area taking shelter from the high winds, were practically becalmed.

Photo: Capitan Miranda (Uruguay)

Local weather forecasters informed the Race Committee that winds were most likely to increase as the day wore on, but by 0900 GMT there was no sign of this, so a further hours delay was added on

However, the time passed quickly with a large school of bottle-nosed dolphins providing entertainment for the spectator fleet and press boat under a glorious blue sky. The Race Committee was eventually able to get the fleet away at 1100 GMT. What wind there was had been from the west throughout the morning and by 1100 GMT was between 6 and 7 ' knots. This was assessed as being just enough to get the Fleet going.

First over the Start Line in Class A was Capitan Miranda (Uruguay) at 1109 GMT, closely followed one minute later by Kaliakra (Bulgaria) with Mir (Russia) less than a minute later. Last within the fifteen minute start window was Mircea (Romania) at 1113:26 GMT. The remainder of the Class A Fleet were outside the 15 minute start window.

First in Class B to cross the Start Line was Aquarelle (France), followed by Anthea (France) and Jolie Brise (UK). In Classes C & D, who started together at 1145 GMT, Capricia (Italy) and Stella Polare (Italy) were amongst the first to cross the Start Line. Bringing up the rear of the Fleet and last across the Start Line was Idea Due (Italy).

The Fleet faces a frustrating first day at sea because of lack of wind but the Trainees who stepped aboard for the first time in Toulon, two days ago, will be grateful for some time to get to know the ropes and their fellow crew members.

Forecast is for very light west or northwesterly winds but the Mediterranean is renowned for its unpredictable weather patterns. Meanwhile, the crews can be reassured that Genoa is waiting for them.

The first radio schedule tonight will show what progress the Fleet has made.

Parade of Sail Toulon

By 1100 hrs, The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 fleet had departed from Toulon, and were making their way to Genoa under an increasing wind along the Parade of Sail route. As the ships left the shelter of the harbour it soon became clear that the setting of sails would not be easy, so the majority of ships motored towards the Bay of Hyeres.

Thousands of spectators lined the shore as the ships made their way eastward. Mir (Russia) was the last ship to pass in the parade and it was evident from the increasing white caps on the sea that winds had already increased to a Force 7. However, the ships at the front of the Parade were, by this time, getting themselves comfortable in the anchorage in the Bay of Hyeres.

Stockholm awaits a fleet of 116 Tall Ships

Preparations are in full swing in Stockholm with a tented village popping up along the quays of Gamla Stan. With a total of 116 Tall Ships expected to arrive for the event, special pontoons are being brought in to accommodate the smaller vessels, while the larger ships will be berthed along Stadsgarden.
The first ship to arrive is Tunas Samudera (Malaysia) which arrived in Stockholm last Saturday and will take part in the second race as part of a world tour. The ship left its home port of Kuala Lumpur in March this year and will continue around the world, returning in April 2008. The remainder of the fleet are currently enjoying a cruise in company from Kotka through both the Finnish and Swedish archipelago, with a number of ships currently in Hanko, Tammisaari and Kökar. Many are aiming to meet up in Mariehamn in the island of Åland for a couple of days before proceeding to Stockholm.

The fleet are due to be in Stockholm by midday on Friday 27 July until Monday 30 July when they will leave in a Parade of Sail to the race start location, which will take place on Tuesday 31 July. The race to Szczecin, Poland, will last until 3 August.

Farewell Toulon

Under a beautiful blue sky the crowds returned early today to the Toulon Harbour to bid farewell to The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 fleet. A calypso band played alongside Guayas (Ecuador) while her crew manned the yards to huge applause. The tugs were busily assisting the ships that required it and cannons could be heard blasting a farewell salute.

Winds for the Parade of Sail out of Toulon and east along the coastline are blowing a steady 15 knots and are forecasted to increase as the afternoon progresses. Confirmation of the gale that was forecasted yesterday has been received but the ships will all be in the sheltered Bay of Hyeres before the gale appears.

Plans for the re-arranged Race Start continue to be refined.

Forecasted Gales Delay Race Start to Genoa

The Race Committee met this morning to consider the outcome of the weather forecast predicted for the Start of the second Race on Tuesday, 24 July.

Winds on the afternoon of the 24th are forecast as being westerly Force 7 gusting to Gale Force 8. The further outlook forecasts that the winds will increase to Gale Force 8, gusting to Severe Gale Force 9. However, these strong winds are forecasted to pass through the region very quickly and by the morning of 25 July, winds will have decreased to Force 4 to 5.

As a consequence the Race Committee decided to delay the start to 1000 hrs local time on Wednesday, 25 July.

There will be no change to the departing procedure of the fleet from Toulon which is scheduled to start at 0830 hrs tomorrow 24 July. The fleet will proceed along the designated Parade of Sail course to a finish point in the Bay of Hyeres. This large bay provides excellent shelter, particularly from winds from the west, and the fleet will be able to lie comfortably at anchor there until the gale passes through and winds decrease on Wednesday.

Spectacular Crew Parade Thrills Toulon

An estimated 250,000 people lined the streets of Toulon yesterday to watch the spectacular Crew Parade for the Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007.

“This was an incredible event for Toulon,” said Mayor Hubert Falco. “The Tall Ships’ Races in our city has been a wonderful success and we welcome all of the crews and visitors, both now and in the future.”

After the hour long Parade, which included not only the jovial flag-waving crews from 34 vessels, but also several marching bands, Du Bagad de Lann Bihoué, clowns, pirates and mascots, the crews proceeded to Place Liberté for the Prize Giving Ceremony.

Three separate prizes were given for the parade itself:

The prize for Maritime Spirit, presented by Jean Tandonnet, Prefet Maritime, went to Mircea (Romania).

The prize for Originality was awarded to Capitan Miranda (Uruguay).

Palinuro (Italy) won the coveted “Coup de Coeur” award, which translates loosely as the ‘WOW’ factor prize. This was presented by M. Jacques Bianchi, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Toulon.

Sports Day prizes were also presented to the top three overall points winners: Mircea (Romania), Mir (Russia) and Libertad (Argentina).

During the evening a record number of crew members enjoyed music, drinks and hors d’ oeuvres at the Toulon Crew Party. Alignment

From Cod Fisher to Sail Trainer

Sometimes one has to be pragmatic when in a racing situation that, well, seems less than promising. "Perhaps if we had a bit more keel," jokes Captain Joao Ribeiro Nobre da Silva Ramos of Creoula (Portugal). "We just have not caught the right winds."

However, one thing he does think they have just right is their Sail Training Programme. "The main mission of Creoula is to sail with people from civilian society. She is not a cadet boat. We have between 700 and 1000 trainees per year and they are primarily Portuguese. We have several different types of training programmes of varying lengths, but one thing is for sure, when the Trainees finish the programme they have a better understanding of the importance of the sea and why we have a Navy."

"Our Trainees are mainly young," he continued. "But in working with the young people the whole family gets the message. They teach their parents and it becomes a huge learning experience for everyone.

"With Sail Training International and The Tall Ships" Races you add to that mission a new dimension of the multi cultures, the parties, the ambience and even the enthusiasm of the people in the cities we visit. Our Trainees are similar to Reservists in America. We teach them to care about the sea and to be aware of what it means to our country and others. Our goal is not to attract people to the Portuguese Navy. It is more strategic than tactical in nature."

But what about their most popular Trainee" That would be Giba (named for the Gib sail). "Giba is a Portuguese Water Dog," proudly explained da Silva Ramos. "She is a very popular member of the crew. And, she is very intelligent! Her brother is twice World Champion Portuguese Water Dog. Her breed is 900 years old and she was given to me by the breeder, Canil Pedra da Anixa."

Though Giba has passed all of her training onboard Creola with flying colours, it does seem there is a drawback. "Giba is a wonderful swimmer and absolutely loves to sail. But it is awful when we travel by car." Sadly, that makes her sick as a dog.

History:

Creoula, a four-masted schooner, was built at the start of 1937 at the CUF shipyards in Lisbon as a cod fishing boat. She ran a total of 37 fishing trips and sailed the equivalent of ten times round the world. In 1979, she was bought by the Portuguese Government with the intention of turning her into a museum. But when she was docked and the hull found to be in excellent condition, the decision was made to keep her sailing and turn her in to a Sail Training Ship. In order to make this possible, the ship underwent a number of alterations, mainly within the former fish hold, which now houses the Trainees! deck and living quarters, library and study room, a canteen and washrooms.

Kotka waves a sad farewell to the fleet

Kotka waved a very sad farewell to The Tall Ships' Races fleet today as they headed out of town in a Parade of Sail on their way to Stockholm, Sweden. Some of the ships started to undock at 0800 with all of them having departed the harbour by 1130.

As the ships slowly made their way out of Kotka, they passed a number of islands where hundreds of people lined the shores to wave them on their way. The event organisers in Kotka had hoped for around 300,000 visitors over the four days, but the crowds that had turned up each day delighted everyone so it looks like that number was surpassed. Dozens of small pleasure boats were out on the water to watch the Tall Ships go by while helicopters and small aeroplanes buzzed around overhead. An unhelpful wind direction meant that not many of the Tall Ships were able to display much sail, but Cuauhtemoc did set some sail as she turned south after paying her respects to Kotka by saluting the vessel Porkkala.

On the shore, Henna and Sanni, 3 and 5 years old, threw stones into the sea while their parents, Sirkka and Marko, looked out at the ships as they slowly advanced. The Peräkasari family have lived in Kotka for 30 years and they visited The Tall Ships’ Races every day from Wednesday to Saturday. “We live right in the middle of the city, and it’s been a really lovely week. There were a lot of people but the event has been cheerful and everyone's been in very good humour. There hasn’t been any noise or trouble, which has been great for the children,” Sirkka says. The family visited the Mexican ship Cuauctemoc. “I think they had fine uniforms,” says Sanni while her little sister seems to find playing in the sand more fun.

Another 5-years old spectator, Jesper Pulkkinen, didn't hesitate when asked what he thought the best part of the week had been: “The helicopters and the aeroplanes flying around the ships," he said. "And then the little yachts that go very fast!" Jesper's mother liked the way the event had been organised on both sides of the Kotka Island and her favourite event, apart from visiting the ships, was the Crew Parade. “The Tall Ships’ Races has brought a really international and good feeling to the city for the whole week,” she said.

Meanwhile The Tall Ships' Races seems to have found a potential trainee in the form of 12 year old Maija Appelberg, from Hamina, a town to the east of Kotka, who was taking photos of the departing ships. Maija has been sailing for many summers with her grandparents but liked seeing the Tall Ships so much that she announced: “I might want to try sailing on one of those big ships later on.” She will be very welcome.

The fleet will now cruise-in-company to Stockholm where they are due to arrive by Friday 27 July. They will then enjoy four days of festivities before embarking on Race Two to Szczecin, Poland.

Young trainees row from St. Petersburg to sail on Shtandart

If there was a prize for the most novel way of getting trainees to a ship, then Captain Vladimir Martus of the Russian ship Shtandart would almost certainly win. Ten of his trainees travelled to Kotka by longboat, either rowing or sailing all the way from St. Petersburg. Ten trainees are then replacing them to row and sail all the way back again.

This unusual mode of transport has a greater value than simply getting the trainees to and from Shtandart - it forms part of the sail training ethos that Martus is fostering in Russia. All trainees that want to sail on Shtandart must work on the ship for six months. They learn about many things while they work and have to sit an exam. Those that pass may then vote for those fellow trainees that they believe have worked hard enough to earn their place on the ship. From 400 youngsters that start out applying to sail, just 90 were able to obtain places this year.

The sailing of the two longboats is worked on similar lines except the trainees must actually build the boats before they are able to vote each other onto the trip. "Each trainee must work about ten hours a week for six months either on Shtandart or the longboat," explains Martus, "they also have a lesson each week that teaches them about discipline, sailing terms, safety etc., so that when they pass their exam they are almost professional crew. And more importantly they are extremely motivated."

There are two longboats which are designed on a French frigate called Resolute - they have ten oars, three masts, 46 square metres of sail area and take 14 people in each boat. "They sail extremely well and can make up to 12 knots," explains Martus.

During the journey from St. Petersburg the 28 youngsters had to row for seven hours one day when there was insufficient wind to sail. It took them almost two weeks to undertake the journey but the two longboat teams are hoping to return to St. Petersburg in six days, obviously hoping for favourable winds.

Martus is passionate about the project as he says it brings the sail training experience to many, many more young Russians. "These boats are very cheap to build and maintain which means so many more youngsters can get to benefit from the understanding of teamwork and have the opportunity to experience sailing," he says. "They are a perfect solution for a country where the people do not have the money to pay for sailing as in so many others.

None of the trainees have to pay money for their experience, but Martus believes because they are paying with their time and energy they are far more committed and motivated than those trainees that pay for their voyages. "My dream is to get every college or maritime academy in Russia to build one of these boats and I think it is a good project for any country to adopt."

Beauty, Grace and Lots of Hard Work

Life on board a ship can be very demanding,” says Commanding Officer Massimo Vianello of the Amerigo Vespucci (Italy). “Even a ship as beautiful and historic as Amerigo Vespucci,” he smiles. “This is one of the largest school ships of the Italian Navy. What we have on board is practical training and from a logistics point of view we are completely autonomous.

“Being part of the Tall Ships’ Races is an important part of training. The experience it teaches cadets is how important it is to be organized and disciplined and to live onboard with a lot of people in a tight space. It is a great opportunity to put together a lot of people working at sea. It is a good point for comparing many different ships and to liase socially with other crews.”

“In accordance with the vision of the Italian Navy, the first step of training for officers is to put them in full contact with a sea environment. A sailing ship prepares cadets for a life at sea. Of course there is more wind, more tide and more current in the Baltic so it is more demanding for the cadets. But there is a sort of cultural link with the Mediterranean and especially with Spain so this experience has been an exceptional exchange between the people and the crew.”

As for the Race itself, well, that has been a bit disappointing. “Our width is big for a sailing ship and we are very heavy but if we could just catch the right wind…….who knows?” he smiled.

Facts:

STS Amerigo Vespucci belongs to the Italian Navy. She was launched on the 22nd February 1931 and commissioned in June of the same year. The ship was built to resemble a wooden warship of the early nineteenth century (and, because of this, the two white stripes on black hull recall the two lines of guns): nevertheless, the hull is made of steel riveted plates. Amerigo Vespucci was the second ship of a class of two: the first one, Cristoforo Colombo, was surrendered to the Soviet Union after World War II, as war damages compensation.

Amerigo Vespucci is a full square rigged ship; she usually carries 24 canvas sails (2 to 4 mm.) for a total surface of 2.600 square meters. The overall length is 101 meters (70 meters on waterline), the main-mast is 54 meters tall above the sea level, the maximum draught is 7,30 meters, the displacement is 4.100 tons. She is fitted with an auxiliary engine - an electric motor driven by two diesel-generators, single propeller - which allows a maximum speed of 10 knots. She also carries 11 boats, four of which are fitted with sails and oars, and used by cadets as part of their seamanship training.

With a permanent crew of 270 plus up to 150 cadets, Amerigo Vespucci carries out mainly two kinds of activity: training campaigns for Naval Academy cadets and showing-the-flag in support of national diplomacy. She began her career as Training Ship for the Naval Academy cadets soon after the launch. From 1931 until 2005, in addition to many short cruises around Italy, she has carried out 71 training campaigns in the Mediterranean Sea, Northern Europe and Atlantic Ocean. During 2002/2003 she sailed around the world, spending several months in New Zealand on the occasion of the America's Cup. On board, the cadets learn the basic rules "to live at sea", as well as all the specific teachings in seamanship, navigation, operation of drive systems and auxiliaries, management of logistics, administrative and medical issues.

Opening Morning Brings Crowds and Smiles

Guayas (Ecuador) once again made a sensational entrance into port as her crew stood at attention and sang the Le Marseillaise while she slipped alongside in Toulon. Meanwhile, thousands of visitors were already queuing well before opening hours at Race Village Toulon in anticipation on The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007.

On the water a spectator fleet of scores of boats of varying size, shape and colour have gathered and dart amongst the moored fleet of Tall Ships snapping pictures in wide-eyed wonder.

Hubert Falco, Mayor of Toulon and President of Toulon Provence Méditerranée, gave an opening address to officially welcome the Tall Ships and visitors while Mateo Bruzzo, President of Sail Training International, spoke on behalf of the organization.

After that it was marching bands, bag pipes, songs, mimes and a multitude of Trainees mixing with the crowds. Opening hours for the Race Village are 1000 until 2200.

Thirty four sailing ships from fifteen countries have registered to take part in Toulon. Among these legendary sailing ships, thirteen Class A vessels will be moored alongside the city’s wharves, including prestigious three-masted ships, traditional sailing boats and a few gigantic sailing ships measuring over 100 metres in length.

Young trainees row from St. Petersburg to sail on Shtandart

If there was a prize for the most novel way of getting trainees to a ship, then Captain Vladimir Martous of the Russian ship Shtandart would almost certainly win. Ten of his trainees travelled to Kotka by longboat, either rowing or sailing all the way from St. Petersburg. Ten trainees are then replacing them to row and sail all the way back again.

This unusual mode of transport has a greater value than simply getting the trainees to and from Shtandart - it forms part of the sail training ethos that Martous is fostering in Russia. All trainees that want to sail on Shtandart must work on the ship for six months. They learn about many things while they work and have to sit an exam. Those that pass may then vote for those fellow trainees that they believe have worked hard enough to earn their place on the ship. From 400 youngsters that start out applying to sail, just 90 were able to obtain places this year.

The sailing of the two longboats is worked on similar lines except the trainees must actually build the boats before they are able to vote each other onto the trip. "Each trainee must work about ten hours a week for six months either on Shtandart or the longboat," explains Martous, "they also have a lesson each week that teaches them about discipline, sailing terms, safety etc., so that when they pass their exam they are almost professional crew. And more importantly they are extremely motivated."

There are two longboats which are designed on a French frigate called Resolute - they have ten oars, three masts, 46 square metres of sail area and take 14 people in each boat. "They sail extremely well and can make up to 12 knots," explains Martous.

During the journey from St. Petersburg the 28 youngsters had to row for seven hours one day when there was insufficient wind to sail. It took them almost two weeks to undertake the journey but the two longboat teams are hoping to return to St. Petersburg in six days, obviously hoping for favourable winds.

Martous is passionate about the project as he says it brings the sail training experience to many, many more young Russians. "These boats are very cheap to build and maintain which means so many more youngsters can get to benefit from the understanding of teamwork and have the opportunity to experience sailing," he says. "They are a perfect solution for a country where the people do not have the money to pay for sailing as in so many others.

None of the trainees have to pay money for their experience, but Martous believes because they are paying with their time and energy they are far more committed and motivated than those trainees that pay for their voyages. "My dream is to get every college or maritime academy in Russia to build one of these boats and I think it is a good project for any country to adopt."

Estelle Supports Environmental Theme

The harbour area starts to get active at around 9am as people begin to walk around and visit the ships for the third day in Kotka. Some of the ships are still quiet. On Estelle the trainees have the luxury of being able to sleep until 11 o'clock but Elina Toivonen and Niko Humalisto are on the quayside to watch over a Bio-Diesel container vehicle which is filling vessels' fuel tanks before the next part of the event. “It's half rape seed and half waste vegetable oils from food industry and made in Finland,” Elina explains, and Niko adds, that Estelle does not use bio fuel made from palm oil, because the plantations have considerable negative environmental and social impacts in South-East Asia.

Estelle's mission is to promote greener and more sustainable options for the modern western lifestyle. Sailing six months of the year and mostly run by volunteers, Estelle promotes Fair Trade labelling, the western world's ecological debt on the cost to nature in the southern part of the globe and the use of locally produced consumption utilities to reduce carbon oxide emissions caused by the use of fuel from fossil resources. “In the future and for the future we'll have to shift to sustainable bio fuel on the roads too,” they claim. “It's really good that the Kotka organisers have chosen an environmental friendly way to act, for example all the waste is being collected and sorted during the event.”

“We run a café and sell products on board, and also have activities around the year, like fabric printing. We are also looking for new volunteers to help in our offices in Helsinki and Turku.”

Jani Nevala from the association responsible of running and maintenance of the vessel is proudly holding “The Cook Longest at the Sea” awarded to their cook Outi Moilala at the prize giving - a Japanese style cooking knife with carved letters written on the large blade. “I think this is the best prize of the whole race”, Jani says, “as I don't really understand the competition of speed with sailing boats, for me sailing is more related to a calm pace. But I guess that's human nature, this constant need to rate boats and humans in order”, he smiles philosophically.

Lola, the black ship dog on board comes in from her morning walk, and the crew starts discussing different tasks for the day. I thank them for my tasty fair trade coffee with brown sugar and leave the ship, admiring the 16 members of crew for their commitment to making a change.

For more information on sailing vessel Estelle, visit www.estelle.fi/en.

Article by Noora Kiili

Ships, Trainees and Masses of Activities

Forks dropped to the table and cameras were grabbed at the portside restaurants today as the majestic Libertad (Argentina) slipped alongside in Toulon with her crew manning the yards. At 105.1 metres in length, the Libertad is the second largest ship, after Mir (Russia) at 108.8 metres, in the Race.

Meanwhile, as the tanned and happy faces of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 Trainees swarm ashore, a wave of activities is being planned for them. The sports activities include beach rugby, kayaking, Polynesian boat building and tug-o-war.

There are also four separate tours planned for Trainees:

1) A cable car tour to Mount Faron, the nature reserve and animal sanctuary specializing in big cats.

2) A visit to the Maritime Museum and Naval Shipyard.

3) A mysterious treasure hunt to discover local monuments.

4) Breakfast and bathing on Megaud Bay with a visit to Fort Saint Louis, built in 1696.

To enhance the festive spirit shore side, a village of sponsors and crafts is being set up. A number of artists and craftsmen will be operating in the village in order to promote the local area, its artistic heritage and its local produce.

First Ship Arrives in Toulon

As the Race Village takes shape on shore and the local merchants don their best nautical faces, the first ship – Belle Poule (France) – has arrived for The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 in Toulon Harbour. Now proudly moored alongside the Prefecture Maritime she will be one of 34 vessels to take part in the event.

Just at the mouth of the harbour is Palinuro (Italy) while others expected shortly are: Cala Millor (Spain), Libertad (Argentina), Kaliakra (Bulgaria), Mir (Russia), and Pogoria (Poland) from Class A. Class B and C vessels due in shortly are Tho Pa Ga (Spain) and Zenobe Gramme (Belgium).

Saturday, the 21st July, is the first official day of four days of festivities when the remaining ships will be piped alongside by Bagad du CIN Saint-Mandrier (the official Navy Band). Onshore traditional Polynesian music will be played.

The Race Village will open at 1000 hrs tomorrow. At noon the ships will be officially welcomed by the Mayor of Toulon, Hubert Falco. Trainees will began a social whirl of tours, challenging sports activities and preparations for the Crew Parade which will be held on Sunday the 22^nd at 1730 hrs followed by the Prize Giving Ceremony.

The Mayol Centre Goes Nautical

The Mayol Centre, home to Carrefour – one of the sponsors in The Tall Ships' Races Mediterranea 2007 in Toulon – has gone nautical in celebration of the event. Not only is the surrounding area of the mall complex plastered in colourful banners but many of the 105 boutiques housed in the Centre have decorated with a nautical theme and display posters and flags for the event.

On exhibition in the Centre is a fine collection of large scaled wooden models depicting many famous Tall Ships known throughout the history of the world.

Also on exhibit is a collection of models crafted by students from the Ecole Superieure D’Art in Toulon. Students from The Ecole Superieure D’Art have designed this years’ artistic trophies that are given to the Race winners. On the second level is a fine exhibition of nautical paintings.

At the main entrances to the Centre you can find large posters giving details of the event and brochures telling the exact location of the vessels on exhibit in the harbour plus a description with date and time for other events taking place around the city.

Local Celebrities for a Day

For Louis (18), Guillaume (18) and Alexandra (21) the experience of sailing in The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 aboard Le Don Du Vent (France) was exhilarating. But the status they commanded, if for one evening only, of being a local celebrity was amazing.

“I haven’t had a microphone in my face before,” said Louis at the welcome home barbecue in honour of their arrival in Sanary. But it certainly seemed he warmed to the idea. “We had a wonderful time,” he expounded. “We visited the Calanques, we slept in small bunks and we learned about sailing. First we had to learn the vocabulary, and then we learned to pull the ropes and set the sails. We learned about life and community on a vessel with a crew we didn’t know. We met new people and had a super trip.”

Guillaume joked that some people learned they “couldn’t take three showers a day”. But he also added that the crew had helped them “to discover not only the life on board but about all the life around the boat like the birds and the fish and the sea they live in. They also taught us many technical things like reading maps and figuring out exactly where the boat was on the map.”

Alexandra (who prefers Alex) was not bothered at all by being the only female of the 11 trainees, “I do cross country motor biking so I am used to being with boys. They are sort of normal, like everybody else,” she joked.

Patrick Lenain, another trainee onboard will also remember his trip. “I was so excited when we saw a dolphin that I ran below to get my camera. When I jumped up I hit my head and cracked it open.” Patrick required five stitches but seemed nonchalant. “It was worse at the Crew Parade in Barcelona,” he shrugged. “I carried a sign offering free hugs and kisses but no one took me up on it!”

When asked if they would like to participate again in The Tall Ships’ Races there was a unanimous shout of “Yes! We can leave tomorrow if there is a place available!”

Welcome Barbecue in Sanary

Towering above six and a half feet tall, Mayor Ferdinand Bernhard, mayor of Sanary is an impressive figure. However, when he speaks of the youth of his town and the hopes for the future, he commands the attention of all those near him.

“Our youth are our future,” said Mayor Bernhard. “We are a small seaside town of 10,000 people in winter that more than doubles in size in the summer. Our shoreline is our culture as well as our history. We have an affinity with the sea. Our youth learn in school and through this sort of experience what to do at sea and what to do to protect our ocean.”

Mayor Bernhard not only serves as Mayor but also President of the Commission for Education, Sports and Youth. “One of the benefits of participation in The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 is that it satisfies the aim of the city to be more oriented toward maritime activities,” Mayor Berhard added. “We, of course, would like to see Sanary become the number one harbour along this coast. In the same spirit, we want to give the maximum maritime training to all the young people in the city.

“For the young people it was also a big benefit in that it taught them to work together. They had a nice trip and a good experience. We are now even considering getting our own boat to practice with our youth and continue using this as a means of training. We are searching the French navy for a suitable vessel.

“Sanary is registered in Agenda 21, an organization that promotes the protection of the environment. We feel that The Tall Ships’ Races is working in that direction. We want to expand the experience for our young people to learn what to do at sea and in the ocean but always with a view toward protecting our environment.”

Last March STA France made a proposal to the town of Sanary to put some trainees in The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007. The 11 spaces were filled almost immediately. “We had an excellent response to our announcement,” he said. “And we are proud of our young people. That’s why we are welcoming them home to Sanary along with the crew of Le Don Du Vent (France), who took them onboard, with a barbecue in their honour. We hope that everyone enjoyed their experience and learned something positive from it.”

The trainees certainly enjoyed the barbeque, which took place last night on the Sanary Boules field. Approximately 150 people including friends, family and well wishers turned out for the feast and a jolly round of French sailing songs. Also in attendance was the crew and trainees from Fetia Ura (France) who accepted the town’s hospitality to moor in the harbour during the Parade of Sail from Barcelona

Prize Giving presents clean sweep for Norwegian ships

After a noisy crew parade through the streets of Kotka, the crews gathered around the stage on the quayside for the traditional Race Prize Giving. On hand to present the prizes was the Finnish Minister of Defence Jyri Häkämies, together with Kotka Mayor, Henry Lindelöf.

The Norwegian ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl was confirmed as the winner on corrected time, both in Class A and overall. Second in Class A and overall on corrected time is fellow Norwegian Christian Radich, with Sørlandet placed third in Class A and overall.

Scandinavians took the first three places in Class B on corrected time with Jens Krogh from Denmark in first place, Albanus from Finland in second and Constantia from Sweden in third. Polish vessels held the first three winning places in Class C on corrected time with Dar Natury in first place, Gwarek in second and Dar Szczecina in third. Class D on corrected time was won by Svanen (Denmark) with Feelings (Finland) in second and Nasz Dom (Poland) in third.

The first vessel to have crossed the finish line, in an elapsed time of two days, 19 hours, 0 minutes and 24 seconds, and therefore awarded 'Line Honours' was Hansa from Spain.

Special prizes for Race One, presented by Sail Training International were:

The Sail Training International Communications Prize, awarded to the ship which, in the opinion of the communications officers, contributed most to the running of radio schedules in Race One - awarded to Shtandart (Russia), with thanks also to Eendracht (Netherlands) and Hebe III (Czech Republic). The Cook Longest at Sea, presented to the cook who had the most work having been the longest at sea - awarded to Estelle (Finland). Two prizes were awarded by the City of Kotka: The Environmental Prize for the 'Greenest' Vessel went to Eendracht (Netherlands) The Best ship in the crew parade went to Asgard II (Ireland). Two prizes were awarded by the Port of Kotka: The best arrival in port - awarded to Cuauhtemoc (Mexico). The 'Sisu' Prize for Persistent Determination - awarded to Leader (UK) who continued racing even thoug they lost their top mast.

Crews enjoy Jazz and Sail Party while Captains honour one of their own

Crews from different vessels did not wait for their Crew Party to have a fun-filled, lively and joyful evening celebrations in Kotka. Just after the Captains' Dinner the doors of Kotka Concert Halls' Duetto-club opened at 10 pm to crews and public for a Jazz &Sail Party. Finnish front line artists, hiphop master Redrama, along with Eero Koivistoinen Music Society provided a mind-blowing concert combining funk, jazz and hiphop music.

During the Captains' Dinner, veteran Captain of 50 Tall Ships' Races, Bo Rosbjerg, was honoured with a gift from Sail Training International and a standing ovation from his fellow Captains for outstanding support of The Tall Ships' Races. His ship, Jens Krogh was also honoured for also having taken part in 50 Tall Ships' Races under the captainship of Bo.

After the dinner, a number of officers entertained with some spontaneous singing while downstairs in the Jazz and Sail party, Norvegian Øivind Bach, commanding officer of Thyra enjoyed music, good company and excellent ambience with the liaison officer of Aglaia, Paula Nuorteva. Paula is one of numerous local volunteers to take part in the Tall Ships' Races arrangements. Liaison officers have each a named vessel to take care off, and their task is to inform captains and the crews about the services and free time activities available in the ports. “Volunteering is a fun way to make international friends”, says Paula.

Marie Kobbi from Moscow also enjoyed music and the company of her four Russian friends who all sailed on different vessels from Århus to Kotka. “I'm terribly tired but it was so beautiful” Marie describes her feelings after her first race. “I have sailed for four years already, but never visited Finland or Kotka before”, she answers as for the motivation to climb aboard of the replica vessel Shtandart. In Moscow Marie works as a chief editor of documentary films. About the next day's plans, Marie says that she's going to be the one cooking for the whole crew but in the afternoon she hopes to take part to the rapid shooting along the River Kymi and also visit some other ships. Mike Yavorskiy is planning to go shopping, take a walk in the Katariina park and take advantage of the swimming pool. “And of course we're going to the Crew Party!”, the group of five shout together.

The City of Jazz Kotka: Kotka is THE port from where New Orleans jazz music arrived in Finland on board international cargo ships. The city has given birth to a large number of Finnish top jazz musicians, jazz and pop music groups and producers. Along with its nationally acclaimed city gardens, Kotka is a city of music, events and relaxed fun.

Article by Noora Kiili

Official Opening in a windy Kotka

The official opening ceremony for The Tall Ships' Races in Kotka took place today under a clear blue sky but with a strong wind blowing. Despite the winds, the crowds came out in force to marvel at the Tall Ships and enjoy the entertainment that the city of Kotka had arranged.

The Mayor of Kotka, Henry Lindelöf, welcomed the fleet to the city and wished them happy times in Kotka and hoped they would enjoy the friendliness of the people. The speaker of the Finnish Parliament, Sauli Niinistö, a popular Member of Parliament, also welcomed The Tall Ships' Races to Kotka and commented that it was almost as windy as some days in Parliament.

The high winds caused a few problems in the harbour as one of the pontoons on the northern end of the port started to drag, causing some concern for the Class C and D vessels berthed in the area. However, the fast actions of captains and race officials managed to get all the vessels moved away safely and berthed alongside other vessels.

Tonight the Captains' Dinner will be held in the Kotka Concert Hall, while along the quayside, there will be some jazz and local bands performing for visitors.

No scrubbing decks with bleeding fingers for Sini's first race

Sixteen year old Sini Pulkkinen, from Finland, was drawn to participate in The Tall Ships' Races on board Villa Mare after listening to the stories of her elder brother, Tomi. Sini's first race, and her first sailing experience at sea, was more than rewarding. “I got to do the three-hour night shift twice”, she explains. “The first night was rainy but the second one was calm and clear. It felt good to hold the helm and have the responsibility of the ship as a full member of the team”. The Århus-Kotka race was her first time abroad without her parents, and also the longest period of time away from home without them. “It has given me a lot of self-confidence”, she believes. “Of course it helps that my 24-year-old brother and cousins are sailing on Villa Mare, too.”

The Finnish 12,6 meter vessel, Villa Mare, from the city of Turku, started the race to Kotka without any real ambitions to win but with lots of enthusiasm to sail. “We made speeds of more than nine knots as the winds were really good”, tells Pirjo Silviö, who introduces herself as the “Admiral” of the boat with a wink of an eye and who is Sini's aunt. Villa Mare is taking part in The Tall Ships' Races for the fifth time. The first race was in 1996, and ever since then, the younger members of the family have got hooked on the event. “We're here, because our kids love The Tall Ships' Races. We particularly all like the activities in the ports. This afternoon we're forming a team for the church boat rowing competition. I doubt we stand any chance of winning against the military ships' teams, but we're going anyway,” Pirjo smiles.

As a trainee Sini had various tasks from cooking to tidying up the ropes, but she hasn't dared to try working on the sails, yet. “The sails were for the more experienced ones, but I might try helping the next time.” The owners of Villa Mare think that the young people must be given the chance to try sailing by themselves, even though sometimes the lack of experience brings some surprises - such as the fact that the spinnaker split just before the finish line, and had to be left to Tallinn for repair. Villa Mare will pick it up again on her way to Stockholm.

Sini, her brother and their cousins are already making plans for The Tall Ships' Races in 2009 when it returns to the Baltic and will be visiting their home port of Turku. “This is definitely something I can recommend to anybody,” Sini says, “and I didn't even have to scrub the deck with bleeding fingers as you might think!”

Article by Noora Kiili

Fazisi disappointed at failure to win race

Marcin Chomik, a 19 year old crew member of Fazisi, offers his right hand elbow for a handshake as both his hands are too sore to be touched due to rope burns. His hands are being moisturised and protected by gloves even though the sun is warm in Kotka, Finland.

“You know, you can get hand burns every day in here,” laughs Adam Szkutnik, 20, and adds that the burns heal quickly enough. Adam and Martin, with the rest of the Fazisi's crew, 17 members overall, all go to the Maritime School of Darlowo in Poland. Their captain, Janusz Kedzierski is a US citizen, and the 82 foot aluminium hull yacht Fazisi sails under USA flag.

Marcin has been sailing for the past five years. He spends every summer at sea for six months, on passenger ships and ferries. “Sailing is the best,” he smiles. “It is a very good extreme sport - you get the adrenaline going - so sailing is my passion,” he explains.

The Fazisi Crew got a fair taste of adrenaline during the Århus-Kotka race. The ship reached the speed of 19,6 knots an hour, which is a fairly high speed. The ship was heeling heavily as the strong wind shot Fazisi onwards from four in the morning until two in the afternoon on the 12th of July. - “Every single team member was quite scared - and very sick,” adds the Captain. They were seriously trying to win the race and were going very well until just 24 miles before the finish line. “We were winning, then the wind just dropped and there was nothing we could do. The spinnaker split in the sudden change of wind speed, and so we reached the finishing line together with the other ships,” says a disappointed Captain.

Adam is a graduate of this year and Marcin, who has another year to go, wants to become a Sea navigator while Adam will be starting his studies at the Technical University of Gdansk this autumn, to become a ship builder. “My name means shipbuilder in Polish,” he smiles.”It's quite funny, I'm the first one in the family to choose a profession at sea, my parents are farmers, and both very afraid of the water!”

Article by Noora Kiili

Rewarding late decision to join race for Yorkshire girl

For 17 year old Alex Harrison from Yorkshire, UK, making a last minute decision to join The Tall Ships' Races was "extremely rewarding" and something she is delighted she had the chance to do. "I heard about it through the Duke of Edinburgh Gold scheme and had to make a quick decision as it was 5 July and I had to be in Arhus the following day but I realised it was a chance in a lifetime - it's The Tall Ships' Races after all!

Alex had done a week's sailing before but nothing like the amount of work needed to take part in The Tall Ships' Races. "At first I thought I would join a traditional Tall Ship but then joined James Cook and had a fantastic time. Everyone was so cool and the whole experience was amazing," she laughed, "I did get seasick a little to start with but that was just for a few days. Then I got land sick when we first got to Tallinn and that was very strange!"

"I had no idea that I would make such good friends, and I had no idea I'd be so comfortable," Alex said, "the banter on board was amazing - we really did laugh all the way! I have to go home now and I really really don't want to go as I'd love to do the next part and I really wanted to do the crew parade and go to a crew party, but maybe I can come back another year."

Alex said she pushed herself very hard and learnt a lot about herself: "I learnt what my boundaries and limits are and it was interesting to see how everyone worked together on the boat. I started off not knowing what to do and having to be told everything but it didn't take long before I began leading and that was a good feeling.

Alex is now having to decide whether to come back as a Watch Leader during her gap year. "It would be great to have that experience on my CV and I know I will enjoy it so I have to try and find the time!"

Ports of Call for Cruise in Company

Now that the fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007 have set sail from Barcelona, a flurry of activities are taking place not only in their next Race port of Toulon, France but also en route.

Seven ports have offered their hospitality to the fleet including: Palamós in Spain, Port Vendres, Cap d’Agde, Marseilles, Sanary, les Embiez and Porquerolles in France.

The town of Cap d’ Agde offered to host ships free of all port charges plus provided a welcome Cocktail Reception. Even Class A vessel Kaliakra (Bulgaria) was pleased to accept mooring and hospitality outside the harbour due to draft restrictions.

A special treat has been planned by the Mayor of Sanary for the trainees onboard Le Don Du Vent, one of seven vessels that have chosen that port for a stopover. All of the trainees onboard Le Don Du Vent are from Sanary, so a gala beach barbeque has been planned tomorrow night to welcome them home.

Meanwhile, in Toulon, a tent city is developing in the Port area to accommodate the thousands of visitors expected to attend the festivities during the four days of the event, 21 July to 24 July. An opening ceremony is scheduled for 1200 hrs on 21 July.

Cuauhtemoc makes dramatic entrance in Kotka

The Mexican ship Cuauhtemoc made a dramatic arrival in Kotka this morning under a beautiful blue sky. The ship's crew manned the yards as they approached the port and as they passed the island of Fort Elizabeth they fired their guns in salute.

Alexander von Humboldt (Germany) led Cuauhtemoc into port and Statsraad Lemhkuhl (Norway) was not far behind. A number of press boats were on hand to provide photographers with some beautiful photo-opportunities as the ships headed towards Kotka.

Meanwhile in port a small army of workers continue to put together a village of tents and amenities for the expected 300,000 visitors. Workmen who are building the new maritime centre, Vellamo, in the heart of the port, stopped work to marvel at the ships as they arrived.

Many more of the fleet are expected into Kotka today with the remaining arriving tomorrow morning prior to 1200 noon.

Torbay Cup Winner Beats the Odds

For Matthiys Janssen, aged 24, sailing the high seas has always been something of a dream. But with a slight disability it was not something that would be easy. This year, however, he joined The Tall Ships’ Races for the third time, aboard Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands), and not only had the time of his life but also won the coveted Torbay Cup Race One.

The Torbay Cup is a new perpetual trophy whose purpose is to recognise and promote one of the core values of The Tall Ships’ Races summer series in Europe: individual achievement and personal effort by young trainees taking part.

Sail Training International’s Tall Ships’ Races have developed into the premier maritime event anywhere in the world for the development and education of young people of all nationalities, cultures, religions and social backgrounds.

The Torbay Cup is a handsome solid silver trophy, 38cms tall and more than 100 years old. It has been donated by Torbay Maritime to commemorate Torbay’s unique role in the history of these Races. As the start port for the first ever Tall Ships Race in 1956, Torbay symbolises the birth of the unique ethos and culture of these Races that endure today.

The Torbay Cup is presented to a Trainee for outstanding individual achievement and personal effort at the end of each leg of the European Tall Ships’ Races. It is aimed at rewarding effort rather than talent.

Captains/Masters are invited to nominate a Trainee from their vessel who, in their opinion, has demonstrated an act of outstanding individual achievement during the Race. Members of the Race Committee then short-list a small number of trainees for interview where the final selection takes place.

That Matthiys Janssen was chosen for the award in the Alicante to Barcelona Race is indeed an honour for any Trainee. However, for Matthiys he declared it “a dream come true.”

The Tall Ships' Races fleet start arriving in Kotka

The fleet of The Tall Ships' Races 2007 Baltic have started to arrive in Kotka with Dar Mlodziezy (Poland), Sedov (Russia) and Iskra (Poland) already in port and many more expected tomorrow.

The port continues in its preparations for the fleet to arrive and the estimated 300,000 visitors. A village of restaurants, shops and cafes is being created, while the local people watch on in eager anticipation.

Fleet positions 16 July

Crowds Applaud Parade of Sail in Barcelona

Thousands of visitors crowded the beaches and the shoreline hotel rooftops to watch the Sail Training International Parade of Sail executed during the final day in Barcelona for The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007. In the spectator fleet on water, horns were hooted in appreciation as some of the Class A vessels passed from the assembly area to the starting buoy. The thirty five vessels then paraded in a line parallel to the shoreline to a Finish Line some two and a half miles up the coast.

Though the sky was a brilliant blue, the wind was unfavourable for most of them to fill their sails. Many of the Class A vessels could only set fore and aft sails though they still presented a spectacular show.

The fleet will now Cruise in Company toward Toulon, France where the second Race of the Mediterranea 2007 series will commence. Four days of festivities have been planned from 21 July until the Race Start on 24 July when the fleet will race to Genoa, Italy.

Praise to the Cook!

To be awarded the prize for the Cook Longest At Sea was "OK", according to Dimitriu Cornel, cook on Mircea (Romania). But to receive a standing ovation from his entire crew at the Prize Giving Ceremony was "absolutely fantastic!"

"I am very honoured," said Dimitriu, "my crew is a great group of guys and to see them all cheering for me was wonderful."

Will he be making them a special treat now? "The favourite dish for my crew is Tripe Soup. I have a good recipe using a little vinegar, lots of garlic and thick cream. It is a very special Romanian dish."

It only takes one hour for Dimitriu to prepare the morning breakfast of one egg, sausage and cheese for his crew of 200, but dinner requires four hours of preparation with three cooks and five assistants. But this doesn't faze Dimitriu. "I look after my crew like family. On Micea we eat very well!," he grinned.

The First Race From Alicante to Barcelona is Finished

The first Race in The Tall Ships' Races Mediterranea 2007 is over and the prizes have been awarded. Hundreds of happy crew members gathered at the stage and were entertained by comic bands and a dazzling high wire performance. But the main event, of course, was the awarding of the Race Trophies.

All Class prizes for Race 1 have been donated by the four Race ports of Alicante, Barcelona, Toulon and Genoa. They were designed and produced by Ecole Superieure d;Art de Toulon.

The winners in each Class were as follows:

Class A 1^st on CT Windrose (Netherlands)

2^nd on CT Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands)

3^rd on CT Mir (Russia)

Class B 1^st on CT Pandora (Italy)

2^nd on CT Belle Poule (France)

3^rd on CT Far Barcelona (Spain)

Class C 1^st on CT Idea Due (Italy)

2^nd on CT Sarie Marais (UK)

3^rd on CT Viva (Latvia)

Class D 1^st on CT Pamadica (Italy)

2^nd on CT Etoile Horizon (France)

3^rd on CT Tirant Primer (Spain)

First Ship across the Finish Line (Line Honours), with an elapsed Time of 2 days, 4 hours, 21 minutes and 19 seconds, was won by Windrose (Netherlands).

First vessel Overall on Corrected Time, with a Corrected time of 2 days, 13 hours, and 16 minutes, was won by Idea Due (Italy).

STI Communication Prize, awarded to the ship which, in the opinion of the Communications Officers, contributed most to the running of radio schedules in Race 1, was won by Sarie Marais (UK).

The Cook Longest at Sea Prize, presented by Sail Training International and awarded, to the cook longest at sea, was awarded to Dimitriu Cornel, cook on Mircea (Romania).

Additional special prizes for Race 1, donated by the City of Barcelona were:

Ship Furthest From Port, Capitan Miranda (Uruguay).

First Vessel to Register to take part in The Tall Ships' Races 2007 Mediterranea, registering on 5 July 2006, Zenobe Gramme (Belgium).

Newest Ship in the Fleet, built in 2007, Viva (Latvia).

Newest Sail Training Collaboration Initiative, in a collaboration initiative between the Italian Navy, the Yacht Club Italiano and Sail Training Association Italy, Nave Italia (Italy).

Ship From a Foreign Country with Greatest Number of Countrymen in Barcelona, Guayas (Ecuador).

Ship With Youngest Average Aged Trainees, with a full compliment of 13 trainees all aged 16, Far Barcelona (Spain).

The Torbay Cup Race 1, was won by Matthiys Janssen, aged 24, on board Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands).

A Career at Sea

Though a veteran of The Tall Ships' Races, First Lt. Luca Costagliola di Fiore only joined Amerigo Vespucci (Italy) three weeks ago. Normally for a man with a career in the Navy that would not be unusual. However, for the past three years Lt. Costagliola di Fiore has been a submariner.

When asked how the two compared he smiled, "There is absolutely nothing similar. They are completely different." However, he is adamant where he prefers to be. "I am very happy on Amerigo Vespucci. I love the sun and the wind and the smell of the sea. Being on a submarine is like seeing life on a television monitor."

Learning new tricks is no problem though. "Many of the technical terms are different but the basic things of navigation are the same. Everyone in the Navy must learn these things." He has no doubts about his career move and is looking forward to his new life above the sea. "Last week the sea was very rough," he joked. "But next week I'll make my first climb up the yard!"

STS Amerigo Vespucci belongs to the Italian Navy. She was launched on 22nd February 1931 and commissioned in June o the same year. The ship was built to resemble a wooden warship of the early nineteenth century (and, because of this, the two white stripes on black hull recall the two lines of guns): nevertheless, the hull is made of steel riveted plates, as well as the two lowest thirds and the three lowest yards of each mast. Amerigo Vespucci was the second ship of a class of two: the first one, Cristoforo Colombo, was surrendered to the Soviet Union after World War II, as war damages compensation.

A Warm Welcome to Barcelona

With much flourish and open arms Barcelona has welcomed the fleet of The Tall Ships’ Races Mediterranea 2007. The first race from Alicante to Barcelona is now finished and the entire fleet has arrived safely. The happy crews are now looking forward to discovering all that the city has to offer.

A wide range of activities have been planned including sporting events, cultural tours and an outdoor concert. During the ships’ stay, the public is invited to come and visit them and discover some of the magic and allure of the Tall Ships’ and the sea.

The fleet leaves Barcelona on 15 July en route Toulon where they are expected by 21 July.

Special Visitor Aboard Guayas (Ecuador)

If a prize were to be given for enthusiasm, then surely the crew from Guayas, if not the entire Ecuadorian population in Barcelona, would surely be the winners.

This morning the ship had a very special visit from the President of Ecuador, the exceptionally charismatic Sr. Rafael Correa.

As the ship came alongside, colourful bands blasted traditional Ecuadorian music and dancers swirled through the crowds. Hundreds of people had gathered early waving placards and watching the horizon.

Guayas was an inspiring sight as she approached. Silhouetted against a threatening sky the crew manning the yards seemed to glisten. President Correa stood with the Captain on the bridge and waved to an enthusiastic crowd.

The President greeted his countrymen and thanked all for the warm reception. Two of the women waiting nearby in the crowd declared the moment the most exciting in their lives. Judging from the smiles, it seemed that many in the crowd and crew agreed.

Race gets off to excellent start in the Baltic

The Tall Ships' Races 2007 Baltic got off to an excellent start today in sunny conditions and winds of around Force 3/4. A total of 79 vessels crossed the start line, with the Class A vessels being led across the line by Dar Mlodziezy (Poland) at 0900 GMT (1100 hrs local). The Mexican ship Cuauhtemoc followed less than a minute later with Christian Radich (Norway) third over the line and making good progress.

The Class B vessels started at 0930 GMT and were led over the line by Albanus (Poland) with Joanna Saturna (Finland) second and Constantia third, just in front of Falken (Sweden) getting the Scandinavian countries off to a good start.

By the time the Class C vessels started the wind had dropped to Force 1/2 posing a few problems for the vessels but Esprit (Germany) was first across just in front of Spaniel (Latvia) and Karfi (Poland). Hansa (Spain) led the Class D vessels over the line, with Tomidi (Belgium) close behind and Feelings (Finland) in third.

The weather outlook is favourable with a good wind from the west expected between Force 4/5 which should mean the fleet will make good progress towards the first Waypoint off the island of Bornholm.

Bryan Adams rocks the Tall Ships

Canadian rock star Bryan Adams rocked the Tall Ships last night in Arhus to an audience of some 21,000 people. The rock legend delighted the crowds with two hours of non-stop entertainment from an enormous stage and also from a smaller stage in the middle of the crowd.

After the concert Adams was invited for a private tour of the Mexican ship Cuauhtemoc and saw for himself the inside of one of these great vessels. While he was on board the city of Arhus was rocked once again, this time by a stunning display of fireworks over The Tall Ships' Races fleet.

Over the three days that The Tall Ships' Races fleet has been in Arhus so far, an estimated 750,000 people have visited the city, a huge increase in the city's estimate prior to the event.

Today the ships will leave the harbour in a Parade of Sail and for once the sun has come out promising a real spectacle for the crowds. The city is already planning for The Tall Ships' Races to come back and all the hundreds of volunteers are beginning to say their sad goodbyes to friends made.

The Tall Ships' Races fleet leave Arhus in a sunny Parade of Sail

The Tall Ships' Races fleet left Arhus today under sunny skies for the first time in a week. The Parade of Sail was watched by many thousands of people, firstly as the ships undocked and left the port and then as they sailed along the coast and in between the islands.

The Danish ship Georg Stage led the fleet past a Royal Danish Navy frigate, Esbjern Snare, on which the mayor Nicholai Wimmen waved a fond farewell to the fleet. Each ship, in their own way thanked the city for their hospitality with cheers and a show of sails.

The fleet will now head towards the race start area which is some 140 nautical miles from Arhus. The race start will take place at 1100 hours local time on Tuesday 10 July.

Back in Arhus the clean up job had begun with the tented village quickly being demolished by an army of people. The city of Arhus will return to normal by Monday morning, but the people will talk about the time they were invaded by so many ships for many weeks to come.

Tall Ships' Races Mediterranea 2007. The adventure begins.

Under a clear and sunny sky the Sail Training International Tall Ships' Races fleet undocked at 0900 hrs 7 July from the berths in Alicante Harbour. The Parade of Sail, organized by the Spanish Navy, took the fleet to the north of the city and ran on a paralel course to the coastline.

Juan Sebastian Elcano (Spain) who was not participating but was visiting the city, lead the Parade of Sail under the watchful eyes of the Mayor of Alicante, the president of the port and a large and appreciative crowd of spectators.

Winds increased from the northeast so that by the time the fleet reached the start line, 5 miles out to sea, the wind had increased to 16-18 knots, occasionally gusting to 20 knots.

The start line was established between a large ocean going tug and a smaller passenger vessel by 1430 hrs, a mile and a half apart, for a 1600 hrs start.

The Class A fleet duly started at 1600 hrs with Palinuro (Italy) in the lead crossing the start line, closely followed by Windrose (Netherlands) at 1602:37 hrs and Capitan Miranda (Uruguay) at 1629 hrs.

First over the start line in Class B was Belle Poule (France). Sarie Marais of Pyun (UK) was first over the start line in Class C & D classes which started together.

The course to the first mark was affectively directed upwind which meant that the fleet, shortly after crossing the start line, had to make their first tack in order to avoid the headland to the north of the city.

Forecasted weather conditions indicated that east northeasterly winds will prevail. This means the fleet will be beating hard up to the Balearic Islands before they can free off after having rounded Mallorca on the way up to Barcelona.

First Race Report
At 0600 hrs UTC 8 July, Class C Europe (France) is first in class and first overall with an average speed of 7.26 and the distance remaining 230 miles.

The Class A fleet is led by Stad Amsterdam (Netherlands), followed by Mir (Russia) and Kaliakra (Bulgaria). Class B Leader is Isla Ebusitana (Spain) while Pamadica (Italy) leads in Class D.

After having won the Chief Vessel Inspector's award for the Best Prepared Vessel at the Captain's Briefing in Alicante, Skipper Marco de Amici met disaster when his ship, Pandora (Italy), was struck by a spectator vessel before the start of the race. Pandora has had to return to Alicante for repairs and has retired from the race, but will make her way to Barcelona once repairs are completed. Jolie Brise (UK) is planning to start the race early this afternoon. Bon Temps (Spain) has not arrived in Alicante and no word has been received of whether she will join the race.

Mayor welcomes noisy crews to Århus

The traditional crew parade took place this afternoon around the streets of Arhus, stopping the traffic and amusing the watching public. The crews made their usual noisy and colourway way around the town centre and up to the Town Hall, where the Mayor was awaiting their arrival.

Mayor Nicolai Wammen welcomed the crews and told them the city had been eagerly awaiting their arrival for many months. "The Tall Ships' Races has a long tradition and has been joining east and west nationalities together since before the end of the Cold War," he said. "Today we have been invaded by nearly 100 ships and yet they are friendly and we welcome you all."

The Mayor noted that the Polish ships had been particularly successful in the sports competitions and announced the winners of the basketball, volleyball and street football - dominated by Dar Mlodziezy but with winners also from Jens Krogh (Denmark), (Hebe IIICzech Republic), Chaser (UK) and Iskra (Poland).

The prizes for the crew parade were then announced with Georg Stage coming in third place for being the happiest crew, Albanus (Finland) in second place for being the funniest crew and Cuauhtemoc (Mexico) winning first place for being the most elegant crew as well as being the ship with the most tequila on board!

Finnish vessel happy to be taking part

The Finnish gaff ketch, Valbord, with its sleek lines and traditional rigging is taking part in The Tall Ships' Races for the first time since 2000 and is hoping to do well, but not expecting to win any prizes.

Captain Marko Kallio said the 30m ship sailed well and they were confident of having a good race. "We can sail this ship with just four members of crew, she is easy to handle although not very fast," said Captain Kallio. In addition to the four crew members, they have 16 trainees on board, some of which have never sailed before.

Antti Lähteenmäki, a 19 year old Fin, is takikng part in The Tall Ships' Races for the first time, although has sailed on board Valborg once before last year. "I think it will be good fun and I love to see these traditional boats all together, although I did get a bit seasick on our way over here so I'm not looking forward to that happening again!"

Irris Tukiainen, 36, has only sailed as part of a holiday before and never before taken part as a trainee. She wanted to take part as she thought it would be good fun to see different countries. "On our way over here we did stop a few times, but once we cross the start line there will be no stopping until Kotka, and that will be a very different experience," irris said.

Valbord suffered some damage on her way over when a boom broke in the middle of a night while under sail. Antti said there was a load crack and the boom crashed down. There was no danger to anyone, but one trainee was a little shaken by the experience.

"The good thing is that they managed to get a replacement boom sent out from Helsinki immediately so we will have that replaced today in time to take part in the race," said Irris.

From Trainee to Skipper on Spaniel

For young Latvian Signe Andersone, 28, taking part in The Tall Ships' Races this year marks a major milestone in her life. In 2001 she took part in her first race on board Spaniel as a nervous trainee who wasn't quite sure what she was letting herself in for. Now seven years later, she is going to be Skipper in the race from Arhus to Kotka, a challenge that she is very excited about.

"This is sail training in its purest sense as I have progressed from trainee right up to Skipper and I'm really looking forward to the race," Signe said. "Spaniel traditionally does very well in The Tall Ships' Races and therefore I have a lot to live up to so I'm determined to do as well as I possibly can."

Signe will have a number of trainees on board who, like her, had never done anything like this before but she knows they will do their utmost to get the best out of Spaniel. Each trainee is required to help prepare the vessel before she is put into the water in the spring and then sail on board for a few evenings and weekends. "I also have three people on board who have done these races before many times, so everyone is going to be working very hard and I'm confident that we can do well," Signe said.

Spaniel's time correction factor (TCF) means that she has to sail quite fasts in order to stay ahead of the competition. If there is little or no wind, then they will find it difficult to get into the winning positions. "I guess I have a bit of an advantage as I sail in the Baltic all the time, but at the end of the day it is down to the wind conditions, so I can but hope for some good south westerly winds to help us," Signe commented.

Preparations continue apace in Århus

The harbour area of Århus continues to be transformed as the city prepares for the arrival of The Tall Ships' Races fleet, expected to be in port by noon tomorrow, 5 July.

With strong winds and torrential rain expected to hit the area tomorrow, however, many of the ships have been arriving today in order to shelter from the bad weather. Cuauhtemoc from Mexico (left) made a stunning entrance with crew manning the yards and stirring music playing as they came alongside. Many more vessels are expected overnight.

While the vessels continued to come in, so the tented village appeared along the two piers that will host the majority of the fleet. Two huge stages appeared on which local and international bands will perform over the next four days. The line up includes Bryan Adams as well as some top Danish bands.

The press office opened for business with photographers and camera crews already around and recording the arrival of so many vessels.

Opening Ceremonies in Alicante

The sound of corks popping and flapping flags could be heard during the official opening of The Tall Ships' Races Mediterranea 2007 in Alicante this morning as a long cue of interested visitors waited for the gates to open.

"We are very proud to have the Tall Ships' Races in Alicante again after 2002" stated Luis Diaz Alperi, Mayor of Alicante. "It is a remarkable event in the world of sailing and excellent publicity for the town of Alicante. Alicante is a city with close ties to the sea and this will bring attention to our fine sailing facilities. However, foremost of all it is a big chance for young people to get to know each other and to learn how to sail".

Matteo Bruzzo, chairman of the Race Committee, added that there were three elements to the The Tall Ships' Races, "The vessels, the trainees, and the port all must work together toward one aim but the result is always magnificent. This is an opportunity for developing character and exchanging ideas with young people from many countries. It can help them to grow and improve their reciprocal knowledge."

Between 750,000 and one million visitors are expected during the course of the week to view the 35 sailing vessels, 12 of them being Class A ships. The port and many boats are open to the public every day from noon till 0200 h.

First ships arrive in Århus

The city of Århus has been busy getting ready for the arrival of the fleet for The Tall Ships' Races 2007 Baltic. Heavy rain over the past few days has failed to dampen the spirits of all those busy putting up tents and making the final arrangements. While the village starts to take shape, spectactors are already turning up hoping to see some of the vessels.

Today, two days before the official start of the event, the first few vessels came into port and just as the first Class A vessel, Dar Mlodziezy (Poland) came alongside, so the sun came out. Everyone is hoping the rain now stays away to encourage the crowds to come to see the spectacle.
The first official day is Thursday 5 July when all the vessels are due to be in port by midday. At 1400 hrs, local time, an opening ceremony will be held on Pier 1 at which the Mayor will welcome the fleet.

A total of 89 vessels will take part in the first race from Århus to Kotka in Finland, a total of almost 500 nautical miles. Around 4,000 crew members will participate, including about 2,500 young people between 15 and 25 years old.

Alicante Greets the Tall Ships

The horizon has been dotted with circling mast for two days as Alicante anticipates the arrival of the first Tall Ships scheduled to participate in Sail Training International’s The Tall Ships’ Races 2007 Mediterranea.

Dawn broke with the cruise ships leaving the harbour and the pilot boats ready to guide the contenders to their berths. Overhead a couple of Air Force jets performed a pass by in a brilliant blue sky while a city of tents was springing up like mushrooms on the quayside.

First to arrive were the topsail schooner, Pandora, from the Yacht Club Italien and the sleek two-masted Dutch schooner, Windrose.

Next in port was the Italian barquentine, Palinuro, owned by the Italian Navy. This impressive 3-masted schooner with a square rigged foremast, built in 1934, is not only very popular with admiring crowds but she also comes with high expectations.

“We are not the fastest ship,” says Commander Angelo Patruno, “but we hope seriously to win the race. We have 50 petty officer cadets onboard and everyone of them is ready to win!”

Tomorrow, the Fourth of July, is the first official day for The Tall Ships’ Races in Alicante. All 30 vessels entered in the race will be alongside by midday with a total crew number of 1388. The first leg of the race from Alicante to Barcelona will be between 220 and 340 nautical miles depending on which course is chosen based on weather conditions.

PRESENTACION DE LA REGATA DE GRANDES VELEROS (TALL SHIPS' RACES 2007) EN EL PUERTO DE ALICANTE

El día 4 de julio de 2007 a las 12:30 h., en la carpa institucional situada en el muelle 14 del Puerto de Alicante, tuvo lugar la presentación a todos los medios de comunicación, de la Regata de Grandes Veleros, TALL SHIPS' RACES 2007, que comenzo su andadura en las instalaciones del puerto de Alicante, con la presencia del Excmo. Alcalde de Alicante D. Luis Díaz Alperi, el Director del Puerto de Alicante D. Juan Ferrer, el Director Técnico de la regata D. Manuel Nadal Y D. Mateo Brutzo.

Esta será una ocasión única para poder contemplar de cerca, durante 4 días, los aproximadamente 40 maravillosos veleros, entre ellos el emblemático Juan Sebastián Elcano, venidos de todas las partes del mundo, además de tener la oportunidad de conocer como vive la tripulación y visitar las principales estancias de los barcos que estarán atracados en los muelles 10,12 y 14 del puerto de Alicante, a partir de mañana y hasta el sábado 7 que tendrá lugar la salida oficial de la regata.

La entrada al recinto portuario es libre y se espera la visita de cerca de un millón de personas, que podrán disfrutar de los numerosos actos organizados por el puerto para la ocasión, así como un amplio despliegue de carpas para los cerca de 5.000 tripulantes y un VILLAGE en el que se ubicará el área comercial con la presencia de los patrocinadores y colaboradores de la regata. También en la Playa del Postiguet, a partir del día 5 se organizarán diversas actividades deportivas para todos los participantes.

Del 4 al 7 de julio, Alicante vivirá una autentica fiesta de la navegación.