Army Sailing Association commissions and launches their new off shore racing yacht 'British Soldier'

A beautiful Archambault 40, she was officially named and launched at Fort Blockhouse in Gosport last Friday 9th May and Boatshed were invited along to take part in the ceremony.

The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mrs Mary Fagan was guest of honour and conducted the naming and launching ceremony in the time honoured tradition by cracking a bottle of champagne across the bow. Also in attendance was General John Kiszely, Admiral of the Army sailing Association. ‘British Soldier’ was blessed by Padre Jim Aitchison. After the ceremony, there was a spectacular fly-past by the Army Air Corps’ helicopter aerobatic display team.

British Soldier is the first ever, Services yacht to be selected for the British Rolex Commodore’s Cup Team. This year, the Army Sailing Team will also compete in the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s offshore points series, including The Cowes-Madeira-Cowes Race in August.

Next year, the Army Sailing Association will take part in TRANSGLOBE, sailing around the world and competing at prestigious events such as Antigua Week and The Rolex Sydney Hobart.

Boatshed brokered the sale of 'British Soldiers' predecessor ' Long Bow', and has an affinity with the Army Sailing Association through Boatshed Sussex.com

Army Sailing has once again, despite operational tempo, continued to achieve a great deal in the yachting circuit and along the way introduced many novices into our sport. Having only had the boat for three weeks it is great news that they have already qualified for the Commodores Cup Race 29th June 2008 and Boatshed wishes them all luck.