Extreme Sailing Series Asia (ESSA) - China Team entry

by Jaap Buma, Sailing Events Asia on 17 Nov 2009 Three members of China’s original 2007 America’s cup crew return to test their mettle in the first Extreme Sailing Series Asia, taking place in Hong Kong on 20-24 November. Participation in the event marks the first step towards the creation of a new generation of top Asian sailors for high-performance events including the Volvo Ocean Race and the America’s Cup.

Joining helmsman Wearn Haw Tan, skipper Thierry Barot and crew-member Wang Jue, is world class sailor Mark Stopforth on mainsail for what will be the team’s first foray into Extreme 40 racing. 'These races give us the opportunity to test our new team against the world’s best sailors, and to prove ourselves once again on an international platform,' said Barot. Valuable experience will come in the form of Extreme 40 veterans and Olympians Hugh Styles and Adam Piggott, who will also join the team for the event.

The Extreme Sailing Series Asia -(www.extremesailingseriesasia.com ) - includes regattas in Singapore (11-15 December) and Oman (1-5 February 2010).

Tan and Barot are seeking once again to give young Asian sailors the opportunity to compete alongside the finest sportsmen in the world. 'As we continue to build our team, these events will help us ensure the necessary recognition and exposure to guarantee our presence at the world’s most prestigious races,' added Barot.

The event will also allow local stakeholders and VIPs an introduction to the inaugural Extreme Sailing Series Asia, in a bid for the circuit to become in time a fully public-oriented event in the international sailing calendar.