Salford student takes the helm in Tall Ships' Race

University of Salford student Rob Brown is swapping text books for the tiller when he sets sail in the Tall Ships' Race this summer - and he's not put off by the fact that he's never sailed before.  BA Journalism and Broadcasting student Rob, who is in his final year at the University of Salford, has been chosen to take part in the international maritime event as part of the Sailing North East crew.  They will be racing the Black Diamond of Durham - a ten-berth, 45ft Bowman Corsair Ocean Racer.  The 22-year-old, from Middlesbrough, will be trained in the art of sailing as the race progresses. 

He said: "A lot of the crew will be novices, like me.  It's certainly a challenge - and I like a challenge!  I like to push myself mentally and physically and, as I'm going to be leaving university this summer, I'm hoping it will be good preparation for going out into the world."

Rob will be graduating from the University of Salford only a couple of days before embarking on this next venture.  "I think it's going to be really hard work," he said, "but it's going to be an adventure and a chance to experience something different."

Rob is currently looking for sponsorship from organisations that would like to use the traditional tall ship he'll be racing - plus its crew - for publicity.  "In the past our boat has carried flags or hull stickers, the crew have worn company-sponsored clothing and we've taken part in photo opportunities," he said.  "Basically, we're completely open to suggestions - within reason of course!  The races get national and international coverage from radio, newspapers and TV, so it's an ideal opportunity for businesses to get themselves seen."

The Tall Ships' Race, which is organised by Sailing Training International, takes place every year in European waters.  Between 70 and 100 vessels from up to 20 countries worldwide take part in the event, which this year begins on 18th July in Liverpool, the European Capital of Culture for 2008.  From Liverpool, where the first race takes place, the crews will sail to Norway for the second race and then finish their journey in the Netherlands on 23 August.