Is there a record of the longest boat name on record. If there is, then with the launching and official naming of the Henri Lloyd Entry for the Clipper 2013-14 Round the World Race, there may be a new contender for the title.
Cracking the traditional bottle of champagne Paul and Martin Strzelecki joint CEO’s of the sponsoring company the boat was christened: Henri Lloyd – 50 Years of Pioneering Spirit.
Try saying that three times every time you make a radio call over the VHF!
Following the ceremony the boat and her crew began their g voyage tomorrow from St Katherine’s Dock beginning with a spectacular Parade of Sail along the Thames with the other 11 Clipper yachts.
The naming ceremony was hosted by legendary yachtsman, and founder of the Clipper Round the World Race, Sir Robin Knox Johnston in the Central Basin, St Katherine’s Dock.
All of the 12 Clipper yachts about to take part in the race are berthed in the Dock preparing for the journey.
Paul Strzelecki, Joint CEO of Henri Lloyd explained The name but made no reference to its length. He said, Henri Lloyd – 50 years of Pioneering Spirit was chosen to reflect the relationship between Henri Lloyd and the individuals who over the past five decades have taken on the challenges of this type of adventure. To undertake this type of voyage successfully an individual has to possess inventiveness, resourcefulness and sheer strength of character. At Henri Lloyd we constantly pioneer technological advances in foul weather gear to enable sailors compete more safely and effectively.
“We are so proud to be able to support the boat and be associated with her crew and wish them all well on their amazing voyage!”
The Founder and Chairman of the Clipper Race, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, first met the founder of Henri Lloyd, the late Henri Strzelecki MBE in the late 1960’s at Earl’s Court Boat Show in London, where he purchased a set of “foulies” for his record breaking solo circumnavigation of the world.
Sir Robin said: “I am really pleased to see Henri Lloyd extend their participation in the Clipper Race. They have pioneered the development of all modern technical sailing clothing for 50 years and have provided foul weather gear to the Clipper Race crew for the past 10 years. On a more personal level the relationship with Henri Lloyd goes back many years with its founder, the late Mr Henri Strzelecki and his son Paul when I put my trust in Henri Lloyd foul weather gear for my own voyages and circumnavigations.”