Watch: Clipper crews depart Oban as they begin final stage
And they’re off! The Clipper Race departed Oban today in stunning fashion, with thousands of spectators descending on the town to wave the crews off on the final stage.
The day began with a parade through the heart of town, down George Street from Station Square to the North Pier. Fans, locals and tourists gathered to watch as Oban High School Pipe Band led the way, with those on the side lines waving Clipper Race flags and banners.
The race’s ten day stopover in town brought a constant buzz, with positive feedback from businesses and Clipper crew describing the stopover as a global highlight.
Argyll and Bute Council Leader, Councillor Jim Lynch, said: “Once again, it’s been a great honour to host the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race in Oban. The weather has smiled on us and shown the town at its brightest and best, matching the warmth of the Oban welcome.
“The town was bustling with excitement, and I feel that once again we’ve shown the best that Argyll and Bute has to offer: its food and drink, adventure sports, culture, sea and land. Thanks to everyone who visited for bringing such joy and colour to the town, and best of luck to all the teams for the next stage in the race.”
Cathy Craig, CEO of the Argyll and Isles Tourism Cooperative added: “What an incredible week this has been. The Festival of the Sea and the return of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race really has put Argyll and the Isles firmly in the spotlight as Scotland’s Adventure Coast. From adventure and culture, to heritage and food and drink, this stopover has really showcased that our destination’s exceptional offering really is unmatched anywhere in the world.”
Kay MacDonald at Bid4Oban, added: “It’s been incredible to see The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race return to Oban this year, and just wonderful to see crews and locals have such an amazing time throughout this week. This is testament to the exceptional west coast welcome that our businesses offer across town from our pontoons, independent shops, restaurants, cáfes and attractions. Many of our members have reported a record week in terms of business and we’ve heard many of the Clipper Race crew describe this as a highlight of the whole race. We wish them a safe and successful onward journey.”
There was some joy on the parade for the home team, Team Scotland, as they lofted into the air their reclaimed Highland Coo stuffed toy mascot which had become lost earlier in the week.
One crew member revealed had been held for ransom by a fellow racer as a practical joke, but all’s well that ends well.
Once crews embraced loved ones at the top of the pier, it was time for them to slip the lines and begin the parade of sail across Oban Bay.
As they climbed into their yachts, they shouted "good luck," and "see you in a couple of days," to those on the opposing teams.
Asked what their message was to the town, one racer thanked Oban for the hospitality, and for turning on the weather. "We’ll definitely be back," he added.
First to leave was Tongyeong, whose departure kicked off a party led by Nevis Radio from the pier.
The crowd filled the esplanade from the North Pier all the way round to opposite Markie Dans to cheer the yachts on as they left the North Pier Pontoons.
From there hundreds piled into busses, cars and bikes to make the trip down to SAMS’ beach to watch them begin the race.
Watch the whole departure here:
And away the they went en route to Portsmouth! After 11 months and over 40,000 nautical miles it all comes down to this for the crews still fighting for prizes.
Portsmouth will mark the end of one of the world’s greatest challenges, which has trained them from amateurs to world class sailors, circumnavigators aplenty among their ranks. They have certainly earned their sea legs.
All teams came flying out the gates, making decent progress across the bay.
It will take the crews approximately five days to reach the finish line, with second and third still to play for.
Keep an eye out on the race tracker to keep up to date with their progress!
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