Winter Olympic legacy launched in Sochi today

An Olympic legacy kicked off in Sochi, Russia today as the international fleet of the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta arrived in the ‘sports capital of the world’ (Wednesday 14 May 2014). 

The head of Sochi city, Pakhomov Anatoliy Nikolaevich, welcomed the fleet and the crews at a packed and rousing opening ceremony saying, äóìSochi is the sports capital of the world thanks to the Winter Olympics and Paralympics and now the SCF Black Sea Tall Ship Regatta 2014.

äóìThe main goal of this event is to support young people going into marine training and the maritime industry; to strive for a healthy way of life and strengthen country relationships. Sail training can achieve this with cadets from maritime universities, but also any young person willing to join a sailing ship. This is what the Tall Ships Regattas bring to the world, especially today in Sochi. 

äóìThis Regatta is taking part under the auspices of the leaders of Bulgaria, Russia and Romania. It is welcoming seventeen sail training vessels, from nine countries around the world, sailed by over 1000 trainees.äó

Robin Snouck Hurgronje, Race Chairman, Sail Training International said, äóìOn behalf of Sail Training International, and all the captains and crews of the Tall Ships who are participating in the SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta 2014, I want to thank the Mayor and all the people in Sochi for making it possible for us to visit this beautiful port.

“I’ve visited Sochi several times to discuss the organisation of the event and I’d like to compliment the city for all its impressive work in the port over the last year.

“We are sailing and racing with the wonderful Tall Ships fleet in the Black Sea for the first time in history, to bring our message of international friendship and mutual understanding.

“We all know very well that Sochi is proud to celebrate great sporting events and this makes it a particularly good place for the Tall Ships to visit”.

Picture by Valery Vasilevskiy

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About Sail Training International (STI)

STI is the international voice of Sail Training, a registered charity (not-for-profit organisation), which has worldwide membership and activities. Its purpose is the development and education of young people through the Sail Training experience, regardless of nationality, culture, religion, gender or social background. It organises the annual Tall Ships Races and other international Tall Ship sailing events. STI members are 29 national Sail Training organisations around the world and STI’ head office is in Gosport, Hampshire, UK.

The organisation was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize 2007 for its work in promoting international understanding and friendship. www.sailtraininginternational.org

What is sail training?

Sail Training is an adventure activity, which includes far more than sailing instruction. Participants are required to confront demanding challenges, both physical and emotional. It is an activity that inspires self-confidence and personal responsibility. It promotes an acceptance of others, whatever their social or cultural backgrounds, and develops a willingness to take controlled risks. Those who undertake Sail Training on Tall Ships generally find it a positive life-changing experience.

For more information about the event visit Sail Training International

Sovcomflot (SCF)

SCF is the lead sponsor of The SCF Black Sea Tall Ships Regatta, 30 April – 27 May 2014, and was previously sponsor of The Tall Ships Races 200