Phil Sharp, who has completed three races across the Atlantic and was the Route du Rhum class winner 2006, did it all without any yachting qualifications!
The internationally renowed sailor, who is currently sponsored by Dominion Fiduciary Services Group, took his first sail qualification, The Royal Yachting Association Yachtmaster Examination, with Jersey Sailing only a month ago! The qualification is globally accepted as the benchmark for excellence in a skipper.
We went down to the St.Helier Marina to congratulate him on his brilliant achievement. Phil explained that the exam involved spending a day being assessed on board of one of Jersey Sailing?s new yachts. ?It was gusting over 30kts so was a bit like doing a driving test without any brakes, or much control at all, not knowing which way the boat would get blown.? John Elliot, who was Phil?s examiner, said ?it was quite challenging conditions but he did very well?.
Phil is currently building a team of local sponsors to represent the island in the pinnacle of international sailing: the Vendee Globe 2012, a single-handed race around the globe, non-stop, in 60ft boats.
To get involved or for more information please visit www.philsharpracing.com
