Finally, We should be seeing some amazing content from the Volvo Ocean Race. Best news I've had!
BOSTON, MASS. (October 13, 2011) – The PUMA Ocean Racing powered by BERG Propulsion team has appointed Amory Ross as the new Media Crew Member (MCM) onboard PUMA’s Mar Mostro for the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012.
Ross, 27, is based in Newport, Rhode Island, where he specializes in nautical photography, video and multi-media. He has logged offshore racing miles as both a crew member and onboard media specialist. Recently, he sailed on the 65-foot Vanquish as a member of the All-American Offshore Team during the Transatlantic Race 2011 and the 2011 Rolex Fastnet Race (third place).
“Amory is passionate about what he does, and it is evident the MCM role is a perfect fit for him,” skipper Ken Read said. “It’s exciting to see the enthusiasm he has for being part of the PUMA team, for the Volvo Ocean Race and also for capturing incredible content. We’re just beginning to witness his depth of talent and creativity, and we look forward to having him onboard during these next nine months and to watching everything he produces. I always tell him that his full-time job is to make us look good – which is certainly almost impossible and will really test his creative ability!”
Ross was a member of the Hobart College sailing team, winning the 2005 national championship. In his last year of college, he began taking photos and later expanded into video, blogs and other multi-media channels. During the past three years, he has split his time between Newport and Jackson, Wyoming, where he has worked as a ski instructor and expanded his portfolio.
“It's definitely a ‘life's dream’ kind of situation for me,” Ross said. “Ever since the Volvo Ocean Race added the onboard media crew member position I knew it's what I wanted to do, where I wanted to be. Everything I have been practicing the last few years, the video and the big boat sailing, it has been done to make sure I have all of the necessary skill sets to take this kind of a job on and do it the right way. It's an incredibly exciting opportunity – to combine my love and passion for sailing with my professional talents, and to do it for a company as exciting as PUMA. I get to sail around the world on a cutting-edge boat with the sport’s most experienced sailors. It's never going to be easy, but I am really looking forward to the challenge.”
Ross replaces Arden Oksanen in the MCM role on the PUMA team. “Arden transitioned easily and adeptly from life in the mountains to living on the ocean with us. He’s a great guy whom we all enjoyed working with, and he was truly committed to the team. Recently, a decision was made to try a different angle with the images coming off the boat.” Read said. “It’s never easy to make changes on a team, but we are moving ahead and looking forward to Race Start in less than a month with Amory on board in the MCM role.”
During the nine months of the Volvo Ocean Race, the MCM captures all of the action. Ross will be filming, photographing, writing, editing, directing and managing satellite news feeds while at sea, broadcasting it via the latest technology around the world. His content will regularly appear on television news feeds, as well as on the PUMA sailing website, www.puma.com/sailing, www.VolvoOceanRace.com and social media platforms (Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter).
As stipulated by the Volvo Ocean Race regulations, MCMs aboard the Volvo Open 70s are not permitted to assist in sailing. However, in addition to his media responsibilities, Ross will assist in a variety of duties onboard, including food preparation.
The PUMA Ocean Racing team is once again under the leadership of Read (Newport, Rhode Island, United States). Collectively, the crew has won the Around the World Race six times. The core includes: Tom Addis, Navigator (Sydney, Australia); Ryan Godfrey, Pitman (Adelaide, Australia); Kelvin Harrap, Helmsman, Inshore Tactician (Napier, New Zealand); Brad Jackson, Design Coordinator & Watch Captain (Auckland, New Zealand); Rome Kirby, Trimmer & Driver (Newport, Rhode Island, USA); Michael “Michi” Müller, Bowman (Kiel, Germany); Tony Mutter, Aerodynamics Coordinator & Watch Captain (Auckland, New Zealand); Casey Smith, Systems Manager & Bowman (Brisbane, Australia); Jonathan “Jono” Swain, Helmsman & Trimmer (Durban, South Africa); Amory Ross, Media Crew Member (Newport, Rhode Island, USA); Kimo Worthington, General Manager (Portsmouth, Rhode Island, United States); and Tim Hacket, Shore Team Manager (Sydney, Australia).
For more information on the race, team and crew visit www.puma.com/sailing
Showing posts with label puma ocean racing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label puma ocean racing. Show all posts
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Puma Ocean Racing Announces Core Team for Volvo Ocean Race 2011-12
PUMA OCEAN RACING POWERED BY BERG PROPULSION ANNOUNCES CORE TEAM FOR VOLVO OCEAN RACE 2011-2012
Boston, Massachusetts, April 29, 2010 – Today Ken Read, skipper of PUMA Ocean Racing, announced his core crew and management team for the upcoming Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012. The team departs Alicante, Spain today to bring il mostro, PUMA Ocean Racing’s boat that secured a 2nd place finish in the last Volvo Ocean Race, back to Newport, Rhode Island where the team will immediately start training for the next race. il mostro will serve as the team’s training boat until a new boat, which will compete in the 2011-12 edition of the Volvo Ocean Race, is completed.
PUMA has named Juan Yacht Design, of Valencia, Spain as the lead boat designer of the new PUMA Ocean Racing yacht. Juan Kouyoumdjian’s designs have a perfect record in the VOR since the inception of the Volvo Open 70 Rule. They are credited with designing the 2006 VOR winner, ABN AMRO 1 and the 2009 VOR winner, Ericsson 4.
“The decision to go with Juan to design PUMA’s new boat was a major step forward for the program, and set in motion a number of key hires that have formed the nucleus of the team,” said Skipper Ken Read.
Two new key members of the team include multiple Volvo Ocean Race winners, Brad Jackson and Tony Mutter. Each sailor was integral to the winning teams in both the 2006 and 2009 races. Jackson is a three-time winner of the VOR and will serve as design coordinator for PUMA Ocean Racing, mixing the sailing team’s input with Juan Kouyoumdjian’s creative and technical expertise. Mutter is a two-time VOR winner and will run the aero program, working closely with Steve Calder of North Sails and mast designer, Scott Ferguson. While sailing, Tony and Brad will also serve as watch captains. Returning from PUMA’s 2009 campaign is bowman and systems manager Casey Smith. "When the boat breaks offshore Casey has to fix it, so having him be part of design process with the build team early on will save us a lot with durability down the road," explained Read. Rob Greenhalgh also rejoins the PUMA crew after being a late but welcomed addition in the last race. Returning shore-team members include: Kimo Worthington, General Manager, and Tim Hacket, who will serve as the Shore Team Manager.
New sailing team members include navigator Tom Addis (Telefonica Blue Co-Navigator), Jono Swain (Telefonica Blue watch captain) and Andrew Lewis (Rambler trimmer and ABN AMRO 2 tactician). “The decisions we make now are the ones that will create success in this race, and having this team of veterans involved early certainly increases our chances to make proper decisions,” said Read of the team assembled so far. “Not only do we have a team that can sail a boat fast, but we have a team that understands what it takes to compete in a race like the Volvo. Great attitudes, great skills, which hopefully increases our chances for success.”
Cumulatively, the management and sailing team for PUMA Ocean Racing shares a level of success difficult to match with 20 Volvo Ocean Race entries and 14 America’s Cup editions. Collectively, the core team holds eight 24-hour mono hull speed records.The Volvo Ocean Race begins October 2011 in Alicante, Spain and ends in Galway, Ireland in June 2012. The eight stopovers in between include: Cape Town, Abu Dhabi, Sanya (China), Auckland, Itajaí (Brazil), Miami, Lisbon and Lorient (France). PUMA continues to produce and expand their line of sailing performance gear and remains the first Sportlifestyle company to participate in a venture of this kind. PUMA will also be the official supplier of all Volvo Ocean Race merchandise.
PUMA Ocean Racing Sailing Team:
Ken Read, 48 (Rhode Island, United States)
Skipper
Considered to be one of the world’s most accomplished racers, Read was in charge of PUMA Ocean Racing and at the helm of PUMA’s il mostro throughout the entire Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. The U.S.-born Read has twice helmed America’s Cup programs in 2000 and 2003 and was named “United States Rolex Yachtsman of the Year” twice and has 46 World, North American and National Championships to his credit.
Tom Addis, 40 (Sydney, Australia)
Navigator
Addis, a trained meteorologist, joins PUMA as a navigator after sailing with Telefonica Blue during the Volvo, taking two leg wins. Tom has sailed thousands of offshore miles onboard Maxi Alfa Romero, winning both Sydney-Hobart and Transpac races. Addis also sailed with America’s Cup Team New Zealand in 2007.
Rob Greenhalgh, 32 (Hamble, United Kingdom)
Helmsman & Trimmer
2009 18’ Skiff World Champion, Greenhalgh is back with PUMA after joining the crew during the 08/09 race. Greenhalgh was a vital part of PUMA’s last campaign and served as tactician for Ken Read during in port racing and watch captain offshore. Rob has sailed two previous Volvo Ocean Races and was part of the crew, along with Tony Mutter and Brad Jackson, who won the race with ABN AMRO 1 during the 05/06 edition of the race.
Brad Jackson, 42 (Auckland, New Zealand)
Design Coordinator & Watch Captain
Named New Zealand Sailor of the Year in 2009, Jackson has sailed the Volvo Ocean Race five times, numerous Sydney-Hobarts, Fastnets and Trans-Atlantics. Jackson was a member of the Ericsson 4 boat that won the VOR 2008-2009 and has been part of three 24-hour monohull speed records. In addition to his role as watch captain, Jackson will serve as design coordinator for the PUMA program, mixing the sailors’ input with Juan K’s creative and technical expertise.
Andrew “Junior” Lewis, 27 (Honolulu, United States)
Trimmer & Driver
Lewis will be one of the three under-30 sailors onboard PUMA’s new boat. Lewis has logged thousands of offshore miles, sailing onboard ABN AMRO 2 during the VOR 05/06 race and on Rambler during the record breaking Transatlantic Race and Middle Sea races. Lewis also has a long list of honors for inshore racing ranging from the Laser Class and America’s Cup. He was part of the monohull record-breaking crew of ABN AMRO 2 during the 05/06 race.
Tony Mutter, 41 (Auckland, New Zealand)
Aerodynamics Coordinator & Watch Captain
Mutter joins PUMA after sailing onboard Volvo Ocean Race 08/09 winner Ericsson 4. Mutter has sailed five Volvos, five Fastnet Races and five Maxi Worlds. He has been part of three Volvo crews where the 24-hour monohull record has been broken. As aerodynamics coordinator, he will work closely with North Sails to design the next generation of VO70 sails. Tony will sail onboard for PUMA as watch captain.
Casey Smith, 31 (Brisbane, Australia)
Systems Manager & Bowman
Smith joined the crew of PUMA’s il mostro for the Volvo Ocean Race 08/09 as one of the under 30’s. Smith was instrumental in repairing structural damages to il mostro during the last race. And was honored for the sportsmanship award for his efforts in replacing il mostro’s rudder during the Leg 7 Trans-Atlantic crossing. Smith has sailed the 08/09 Volvo Ocean Race and numerous Sydney-Hobart races and Trans-Atlantic crossings.
Jonathan “Jono” Swain, 43 (Durban, South Africa)
Helmsman & Trimmer
Jono Swain comes to PUMA with experience in four Volvo Ocean Races, most recently as watch captain onboard Telefonica Blue. Swain is considered an “all around sailor,” mixing offshore experience with an impressive inshore resume which includes and America’s Cup campaign, Louis Vuitton Series and trimming on Mean Machine.
PUMA Ocean Racing Shore Team Management:
Kimo Worthington, 50 (California, United States)
General Manager
Kimo Worthington has a rare combination of management expertise onshore and leadership on the water. His professional sailing career includes competing in six America’s Cups, including a win with America3 in 1992, and numerous offshore miles. In the 1997-98 Whitbread Round the World Race, Worthington was watch captain and sailing team manager for the winning EF Language team. In the Volvo Ocean Race 2005-2006 edition he served as General Manager for second place Pirates of the Caribbean and in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009 he was general manager for PUMA Ocean Racing.
Tim Hacket, 38 (Sydney, Australia)
Shore Team Manager
Tim Hacket has been building racing yachts for over 20 years. A native Australian, Tim is now based in Newport, Rhode Island. Tim’s experience includes four America’s Cup boat builds and two Volvo Ocean Race shore teams, mostly recently as part of PUMA’s Volvo 2008/09 campaign.
*** For more images for editorial use please go to: http://media.pumaoceanracing.com
Boston, Massachusetts, April 29, 2010 – Today Ken Read, skipper of PUMA Ocean Racing, announced his core crew and management team for the upcoming Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012. The team departs Alicante, Spain today to bring il mostro, PUMA Ocean Racing’s boat that secured a 2nd place finish in the last Volvo Ocean Race, back to Newport, Rhode Island where the team will immediately start training for the next race. il mostro will serve as the team’s training boat until a new boat, which will compete in the 2011-12 edition of the Volvo Ocean Race, is completed.
PUMA has named Juan Yacht Design, of Valencia, Spain as the lead boat designer of the new PUMA Ocean Racing yacht. Juan Kouyoumdjian’s designs have a perfect record in the VOR since the inception of the Volvo Open 70 Rule. They are credited with designing the 2006 VOR winner, ABN AMRO 1 and the 2009 VOR winner, Ericsson 4.
“The decision to go with Juan to design PUMA’s new boat was a major step forward for the program, and set in motion a number of key hires that have formed the nucleus of the team,” said Skipper Ken Read.
Two new key members of the team include multiple Volvo Ocean Race winners, Brad Jackson and Tony Mutter. Each sailor was integral to the winning teams in both the 2006 and 2009 races. Jackson is a three-time winner of the VOR and will serve as design coordinator for PUMA Ocean Racing, mixing the sailing team’s input with Juan Kouyoumdjian’s creative and technical expertise. Mutter is a two-time VOR winner and will run the aero program, working closely with Steve Calder of North Sails and mast designer, Scott Ferguson. While sailing, Tony and Brad will also serve as watch captains. Returning from PUMA’s 2009 campaign is bowman and systems manager Casey Smith. "When the boat breaks offshore Casey has to fix it, so having him be part of design process with the build team early on will save us a lot with durability down the road," explained Read. Rob Greenhalgh also rejoins the PUMA crew after being a late but welcomed addition in the last race. Returning shore-team members include: Kimo Worthington, General Manager, and Tim Hacket, who will serve as the Shore Team Manager.
New sailing team members include navigator Tom Addis (Telefonica Blue Co-Navigator), Jono Swain (Telefonica Blue watch captain) and Andrew Lewis (Rambler trimmer and ABN AMRO 2 tactician). “The decisions we make now are the ones that will create success in this race, and having this team of veterans involved early certainly increases our chances to make proper decisions,” said Read of the team assembled so far. “Not only do we have a team that can sail a boat fast, but we have a team that understands what it takes to compete in a race like the Volvo. Great attitudes, great skills, which hopefully increases our chances for success.”
Cumulatively, the management and sailing team for PUMA Ocean Racing shares a level of success difficult to match with 20 Volvo Ocean Race entries and 14 America’s Cup editions. Collectively, the core team holds eight 24-hour mono hull speed records.The Volvo Ocean Race begins October 2011 in Alicante, Spain and ends in Galway, Ireland in June 2012. The eight stopovers in between include: Cape Town, Abu Dhabi, Sanya (China), Auckland, Itajaí (Brazil), Miami, Lisbon and Lorient (France). PUMA continues to produce and expand their line of sailing performance gear and remains the first Sportlifestyle company to participate in a venture of this kind. PUMA will also be the official supplier of all Volvo Ocean Race merchandise.
PUMA Ocean Racing Sailing Team:
Ken Read, 48 (Rhode Island, United States)
Skipper
Considered to be one of the world’s most accomplished racers, Read was in charge of PUMA Ocean Racing and at the helm of PUMA’s il mostro throughout the entire Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. The U.S.-born Read has twice helmed America’s Cup programs in 2000 and 2003 and was named “United States Rolex Yachtsman of the Year” twice and has 46 World, North American and National Championships to his credit.
Tom Addis, 40 (Sydney, Australia)
Navigator
Addis, a trained meteorologist, joins PUMA as a navigator after sailing with Telefonica Blue during the Volvo, taking two leg wins. Tom has sailed thousands of offshore miles onboard Maxi Alfa Romero, winning both Sydney-Hobart and Transpac races. Addis also sailed with America’s Cup Team New Zealand in 2007.
Rob Greenhalgh, 32 (Hamble, United Kingdom)
Helmsman & Trimmer
2009 18’ Skiff World Champion, Greenhalgh is back with PUMA after joining the crew during the 08/09 race. Greenhalgh was a vital part of PUMA’s last campaign and served as tactician for Ken Read during in port racing and watch captain offshore. Rob has sailed two previous Volvo Ocean Races and was part of the crew, along with Tony Mutter and Brad Jackson, who won the race with ABN AMRO 1 during the 05/06 edition of the race.
Brad Jackson, 42 (Auckland, New Zealand)
Design Coordinator & Watch Captain
Named New Zealand Sailor of the Year in 2009, Jackson has sailed the Volvo Ocean Race five times, numerous Sydney-Hobarts, Fastnets and Trans-Atlantics. Jackson was a member of the Ericsson 4 boat that won the VOR 2008-2009 and has been part of three 24-hour monohull speed records. In addition to his role as watch captain, Jackson will serve as design coordinator for the PUMA program, mixing the sailors’ input with Juan K’s creative and technical expertise.
Andrew “Junior” Lewis, 27 (Honolulu, United States)
Trimmer & Driver
Lewis will be one of the three under-30 sailors onboard PUMA’s new boat. Lewis has logged thousands of offshore miles, sailing onboard ABN AMRO 2 during the VOR 05/06 race and on Rambler during the record breaking Transatlantic Race and Middle Sea races. Lewis also has a long list of honors for inshore racing ranging from the Laser Class and America’s Cup. He was part of the monohull record-breaking crew of ABN AMRO 2 during the 05/06 race.
Tony Mutter, 41 (Auckland, New Zealand)
Aerodynamics Coordinator & Watch Captain
Mutter joins PUMA after sailing onboard Volvo Ocean Race 08/09 winner Ericsson 4. Mutter has sailed five Volvos, five Fastnet Races and five Maxi Worlds. He has been part of three Volvo crews where the 24-hour monohull record has been broken. As aerodynamics coordinator, he will work closely with North Sails to design the next generation of VO70 sails. Tony will sail onboard for PUMA as watch captain.
Casey Smith, 31 (Brisbane, Australia)
Systems Manager & Bowman
Smith joined the crew of PUMA’s il mostro for the Volvo Ocean Race 08/09 as one of the under 30’s. Smith was instrumental in repairing structural damages to il mostro during the last race. And was honored for the sportsmanship award for his efforts in replacing il mostro’s rudder during the Leg 7 Trans-Atlantic crossing. Smith has sailed the 08/09 Volvo Ocean Race and numerous Sydney-Hobart races and Trans-Atlantic crossings.
Jonathan “Jono” Swain, 43 (Durban, South Africa)
Helmsman & Trimmer
Jono Swain comes to PUMA with experience in four Volvo Ocean Races, most recently as watch captain onboard Telefonica Blue. Swain is considered an “all around sailor,” mixing offshore experience with an impressive inshore resume which includes and America’s Cup campaign, Louis Vuitton Series and trimming on Mean Machine.
PUMA Ocean Racing Shore Team Management:
Kimo Worthington, 50 (California, United States)
General Manager
Kimo Worthington has a rare combination of management expertise onshore and leadership on the water. His professional sailing career includes competing in six America’s Cups, including a win with America3 in 1992, and numerous offshore miles. In the 1997-98 Whitbread Round the World Race, Worthington was watch captain and sailing team manager for the winning EF Language team. In the Volvo Ocean Race 2005-2006 edition he served as General Manager for second place Pirates of the Caribbean and in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009 he was general manager for PUMA Ocean Racing.
Tim Hacket, 38 (Sydney, Australia)
Shore Team Manager
Tim Hacket has been building racing yachts for over 20 years. A native Australian, Tim is now based in Newport, Rhode Island. Tim’s experience includes four America’s Cup boat builds and two Volvo Ocean Race shore teams, mostly recently as part of PUMA’s Volvo 2008/09 campaign.
*** For more images for editorial use please go to: http://media.pumaoceanracing.com
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Moth Worlds 2010: Puma To Sponsor!
Just in - Love Puma Scoop!
December 2, 2009 – The Sportlifestyle company PUMA continues their love of extreme sailing and signed on to be the title sponsor of the International Moth Worlds 2010. PUMA 2010 International Moth Worlds will be held March 8-15, 2010 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event will be held at the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club.
PUMA 2010 International Moth Worlds is expecting between 50-70 boats to compete, all branded with the signature PUMA cat. Many as 15 of the world’s top Moth sailors slated to participate in the event. The Moth Class draws sailors of Olympic and America’s Cup caliber and is quickly becoming a premier dinghy class.
“During each stopover along the Volvo Ocean Race route last year, the PUMA Moths drew so much attention because of their agility and speed, they became a great addition to the PUMA Ocean Racing team. ” said Antonio Bertone, PUMA Chief Marketing Officer. “We are proud to continue our partnership with one of the fastest growing small boat classes in sailing. The Moth’s require extreme skill to sail but also bring a sense of fun to the sport, something that is a perfect fit for the PUMA brand.”
PUMA became involved with the Moth Class during the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009, having PUMA branded Moths sailed in port during each of the eleven stopovers around the world. During the adventure around the world, PUMA's Moths were sailed by ISAF Rolex Sailor of the Year Anna Tunicliffe, US Laser sailor Brad Funk, former Moth World Champion Rohan Veal and Swiss Moth sailor Arnaud Psarofaghis. Both the Moth Class and PUMA bring a new enthusiasm to sailing, attracting top sailors and non-sailing spectators.
“The Moth Class is delighted to have PUMA sponsoring the 2010 Moth World Championships in Dubai,” said event organizer and Moth sailor Chris Graham. “The Moth class is growing so fast, attracting the best dinghy sailors in the world and putting them in one boat against each other. Along with PUMA’s entry into the world of sailing, we feel that the synergy between Moth sailors and PUMA is a perfect fit. Both PUMA and Moths share a love for fast, exciting and very high caliber sailing matched with a sense of fun an friendliness off the water.”
PUMA has entered a new premium category for sailing and was the only Sportlifestyle company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009, where PUMA’s il mostro boat won an impressive 2nd place finish. Alongside PUMA’s entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA launched a full range of marine clothing and apparel, from offshore sailing gear to onshore lifestyle fashion. The PUMA Sailing Performance collection was developed and tested by the PUMA Ocean Racing team itself, and was worn by the team throughout the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. The PUMA Sailing Lifestyle collection takes inspiration from the sport.
For more information about the PUMA Moth World Championships and PUMA Sailing collections, please visit www.pumaoceanracing.com.
December 2, 2009 – The Sportlifestyle company PUMA continues their love of extreme sailing and signed on to be the title sponsor of the International Moth Worlds 2010. PUMA 2010 International Moth Worlds will be held March 8-15, 2010 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event will be held at the Dubai Offshore Sailing Club.
PUMA 2010 International Moth Worlds is expecting between 50-70 boats to compete, all branded with the signature PUMA cat. Many as 15 of the world’s top Moth sailors slated to participate in the event. The Moth Class draws sailors of Olympic and America’s Cup caliber and is quickly becoming a premier dinghy class.
“During each stopover along the Volvo Ocean Race route last year, the PUMA Moths drew so much attention because of their agility and speed, they became a great addition to the PUMA Ocean Racing team. ” said Antonio Bertone, PUMA Chief Marketing Officer. “We are proud to continue our partnership with one of the fastest growing small boat classes in sailing. The Moth’s require extreme skill to sail but also bring a sense of fun to the sport, something that is a perfect fit for the PUMA brand.”
PUMA became involved with the Moth Class during the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009, having PUMA branded Moths sailed in port during each of the eleven stopovers around the world. During the adventure around the world, PUMA's Moths were sailed by ISAF Rolex Sailor of the Year Anna Tunicliffe, US Laser sailor Brad Funk, former Moth World Champion Rohan Veal and Swiss Moth sailor Arnaud Psarofaghis. Both the Moth Class and PUMA bring a new enthusiasm to sailing, attracting top sailors and non-sailing spectators.
“The Moth Class is delighted to have PUMA sponsoring the 2010 Moth World Championships in Dubai,” said event organizer and Moth sailor Chris Graham. “The Moth class is growing so fast, attracting the best dinghy sailors in the world and putting them in one boat against each other. Along with PUMA’s entry into the world of sailing, we feel that the synergy between Moth sailors and PUMA is a perfect fit. Both PUMA and Moths share a love for fast, exciting and very high caliber sailing matched with a sense of fun an friendliness off the water.”
PUMA has entered a new premium category for sailing and was the only Sportlifestyle company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009, where PUMA’s il mostro boat won an impressive 2nd place finish. Alongside PUMA’s entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA launched a full range of marine clothing and apparel, from offshore sailing gear to onshore lifestyle fashion. The PUMA Sailing Performance collection was developed and tested by the PUMA Ocean Racing team itself, and was worn by the team throughout the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. The PUMA Sailing Lifestyle collection takes inspiration from the sport.
For more information about the PUMA Moth World Championships and PUMA Sailing collections, please visit www.pumaoceanracing.com.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
PUMA Ocean Racing Wins European Sponsorship Award!
Way To Go Puma! Just landed in the inbox from our gal Bridgid Murphy, Puma Ocean Racing's media/PR queen. She does an amazing job!
PUMA, with their PUMA Ocean Racing team, was the only business to consumer company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. PUMA brought their mobile pop-up stores to all eleven ports, and PUMA City to Alicante, Spain and Boston, Massachusetts. PUMA City is A tour de force of architecture and design, the massive 11,000 square-foot structure is made from twenty-four, forty-foot long steel shipping containers, each weighing in at eleven tons. Built in China and designed to be a mobile unit In addition to retail efforts, PUMA also engaged consumers through social networking channels such as a blog, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and an iPhone application.
PUMA’s Volvo Ocean Race campaign was the most innovative marketing campaign ever taken on by the company. With their eye-catching boat il mostro, PUMA was able to secure the greatest media exposure of all the individual boats, a great accomplishment for a single boat team. PUMA Ocean Racing received the most television coverage and the second most print coverage.
“It’s a real honor to be nominated for this award,” said Antonio Bertone, Chief Marketing Officer. “We entered into the sailing category with the overall goal of making sailing inclusive and inviting new people into the sport. Our PUMA Ocean Racing team brought sailing to places in the world that have never seen sailing as an extreme, competitive sport. Our entry into the Volvo Ocean Race helped us show the world we’re serious about sailing and are committed to this new category.”
PUMA has entered a new premium category for sailing and was the only Sportlifestyle company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009, where PUMA’s il mostro boat won an impressive 2nd place finish. Alongside PUMA’s entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA launched a full range of marine clothing and apparel, from offshore sailing gear to onshore lifestyle fashion. The PUMA Sailing Performance collection was developed and tested by the PUMA Ocean Racing team itself, and was worn by the team throughout the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. The PUMA Sailing Lifestyle collection takes inspiration from the sport.
For more information about the PUMA Ocean Racing and PUMA Sailing collections, please visit www.pumaoceanracing.com.
Cheers ~ Jenn
*****
November 25, 2009 – The Sportlifestyle company PUMA is proud to announce they have received the European Sponsorship Award for the best International Sponsor campaign for their effort during the Volvo Ocean Race. PUMA was short-listed for two categories; business to consumer and international. PUMA, with their PUMA Ocean Racing team, was the only business to consumer company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. PUMA brought their mobile pop-up stores to all eleven ports, and PUMA City to Alicante, Spain and Boston, Massachusetts. PUMA City is A tour de force of architecture and design, the massive 11,000 square-foot structure is made from twenty-four, forty-foot long steel shipping containers, each weighing in at eleven tons. Built in China and designed to be a mobile unit In addition to retail efforts, PUMA also engaged consumers through social networking channels such as a blog, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and an iPhone application.
PUMA’s Volvo Ocean Race campaign was the most innovative marketing campaign ever taken on by the company. With their eye-catching boat il mostro, PUMA was able to secure the greatest media exposure of all the individual boats, a great accomplishment for a single boat team. PUMA Ocean Racing received the most television coverage and the second most print coverage.
“It’s a real honor to be nominated for this award,” said Antonio Bertone, Chief Marketing Officer. “We entered into the sailing category with the overall goal of making sailing inclusive and inviting new people into the sport. Our PUMA Ocean Racing team brought sailing to places in the world that have never seen sailing as an extreme, competitive sport. Our entry into the Volvo Ocean Race helped us show the world we’re serious about sailing and are committed to this new category.”
PUMA has entered a new premium category for sailing and was the only Sportlifestyle company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009, where PUMA’s il mostro boat won an impressive 2nd place finish. Alongside PUMA’s entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA launched a full range of marine clothing and apparel, from offshore sailing gear to onshore lifestyle fashion. The PUMA Sailing Performance collection was developed and tested by the PUMA Ocean Racing team itself, and was worn by the team throughout the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009. The PUMA Sailing Lifestyle collection takes inspiration from the sport.
For more information about the PUMA Ocean Racing and PUMA Sailing collections, please visit www.pumaoceanracing.com.
*****
Enjoyed working with all the teams during the 2008-09 Volvo Ocean Race and on the record as devoted fan of Telefonica Blue. However, the way Puma dove in to this event and the positive impact they've had on our sport has won my complete respect for the brand and it's people. They stuck with it. Sincerely hope we see them in 2011!Cheers ~ Jenn
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Nibbles From Puma's Flickr Stream
Puma Ocean Racing "Delivery Mode"...at least they keep our thoughts on the Volvo Ocean Race!
Fair Winds To The Crew Of il Mostro!
Note From Casey:
"The cat just docked out of the lovely Kiel Yacht Club marina at 1930 local time and we're now sitting in the lock, waiting for the gate to open and set us free into the Kiel Canal. From here it is around an eight hour motor with a Pilot onboard, navigating us safely through Germany then out into the North Sea and heading south as fast as the monster will take us.
We are hoping to get some good miles done Monday and Tuesday before another weather system is forecast to come through Tuesday night with up to 40 knots from the South West. Right were we want to go of course!!!
It's nice to be on the move again because Spain hasn't been getting any closer in the last three days."
- Casey
Visit Puma Ocean Racing!
Fair Winds To The Crew Of il Mostro!
Note From Casey:
"The cat just docked out of the lovely Kiel Yacht Club marina at 1930 local time and we're now sitting in the lock, waiting for the gate to open and set us free into the Kiel Canal. From here it is around an eight hour motor with a Pilot onboard, navigating us safely through Germany then out into the North Sea and heading south as fast as the monster will take us.
We are hoping to get some good miles done Monday and Tuesday before another weather system is forecast to come through Tuesday night with up to 40 knots from the South West. Right were we want to go of course!!!
It's nice to be on the move again because Spain hasn't been getting any closer in the last three days."
- Casey
Visit Puma Ocean Racing!
Friday, October 02, 2009
Puma Bite
"We'll, we made it safely to Kiel after pounding away upwind in 20 to 40 knots of wind that brought back memories of heading for China. Every corner we turned the wind shifted- coming right from where we wanted to go. On top of that there were a lot of big bits of fast moving metal that can put an ugly end to a boat without even knowing they had hit something. Ask Jessica Watson, the young Australian girl with aspirations of being the youngest person/girl to sail around the world. First night out in a training run she collides with a huge container ship off the Queensland coast that tore the mast from her boat. She is very lucky to walk away from that collision. The ship didn't even know it had hit something and kept going on its way over the horizon. We wish Jessica all the best on her journey and may she have fair winds and safe travels.
We take ships very serious onboard the il mostro. We keep a constant watchful eye on anything moving around us. Some of our favorite ship encounters so far have been "Peter Pan", "Huckleberry Fin" and "Tom Sawyer." We tell no lies, those was really the name of them on our AIS identification system.
We are currently sitting in Kieler Yacht Club marina and are inviting all of Kiel to come have a look at the monster while it's here. The weather gods have us sitting here for a few days waiting for a nasty front to go over before once again setting sail for Alicante, Spain. We are down heading to the boat for a good cleanup and check over of the mast and structures before going to see the sights in Kiel today."
- Casey
Visit Puma Ocean Racing!
We take ships very serious onboard the il mostro. We keep a constant watchful eye on anything moving around us. Some of our favorite ship encounters so far have been "Peter Pan", "Huckleberry Fin" and "Tom Sawyer." We tell no lies, those was really the name of them on our AIS identification system.
We are currently sitting in Kieler Yacht Club marina and are inviting all of Kiel to come have a look at the monster while it's here. The weather gods have us sitting here for a few days waiting for a nasty front to go over before once again setting sail for Alicante, Spain. We are down heading to the boat for a good cleanup and check over of the mast and structures before going to see the sights in Kiel today."
- Casey
Visit Puma Ocean Racing!
Friday, September 25, 2009
A Nibble From Puma Ocean Racing's Neil Cox
From The Kitty's Shore Manager, September 24,2009:
"Is there life after the completion of the Volvo Ocean Race? Yes there certainly is, and it has been great to be able to step back into it.
The end of the race leaves you both mentally and physically tapped out- regardless of your position in the team. You really need to just walk away for a while, even if its just to gain perspective again as to what was important to you before the Volvo bug took over your life for the last year and a half.
That been said- we still have il mostro sitting in a yard in Sweden since getting her out of Russia after the final leg. We have some what put the band back together with a mixture of sailing and shore team to launch and set up for our delivery down to Alicante Spain . All going as planned, we will be leaving at the end of this month (in a few days). Onboard we have Andrew Cape (navigator, PUMA), Casey Smith (bowman, PUMA), Nick Dana (PUMA shore team), Adrian(aka Spider Read) Grey (PUMA shore team), Mike Pammenter (T-Black) and myself doing what is the last leg post race to the boat’s winter home- which is also the new home of the Volvo Ocean Race .
It’s not the best time of year to be putting a boat back in the water in Sweden and sailing across the Bay of Biscayne, but looking on the bright side, the further south we go the warmer we get. The plan for the boat once we arrive is yet to be decided but at least with the boat in Spain it- leaves many opportunities open.
We’ll keep you posted.
Neil Cox – shore team manager, PUMA Ocean Racing"
"Is there life after the completion of the Volvo Ocean Race? Yes there certainly is, and it has been great to be able to step back into it.
The end of the race leaves you both mentally and physically tapped out- regardless of your position in the team. You really need to just walk away for a while, even if its just to gain perspective again as to what was important to you before the Volvo bug took over your life for the last year and a half.
That been said- we still have il mostro sitting in a yard in Sweden since getting her out of Russia after the final leg. We have some what put the band back together with a mixture of sailing and shore team to launch and set up for our delivery down to Alicante Spain . All going as planned, we will be leaving at the end of this month (in a few days). Onboard we have Andrew Cape (navigator, PUMA), Casey Smith (bowman, PUMA), Nick Dana (PUMA shore team), Adrian(aka Spider Read) Grey (PUMA shore team), Mike Pammenter (T-Black) and myself doing what is the last leg post race to the boat’s winter home- which is also the new home of the Volvo Ocean Race .
It’s not the best time of year to be putting a boat back in the water in Sweden and sailing across the Bay of Biscayne, but looking on the bright side, the further south we go the warmer we get. The plan for the boat once we arrive is yet to be decided but at least with the boat in Spain it- leaves many opportunities open.
We’ll keep you posted.
Neil Cox – shore team manager, PUMA Ocean Racing"
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Puma Bloopers!
Just In From Puma PR Peeps:
"Just because the Volvo Ocean Race is over does not mean that we've fallen asleep here at PUMA Ocean Racing. In fact, we have been working on a few films. Here is the first post race films, The Blooper Reel of PUMA's il mostro.
After nine months of sailing around the world, and being filmed in the process, the crew got used to have MCM Rick Deppe's camera on deck. It just seemed natural to have film rolling 24 hours a day. Luckily for us, there were some memorable quotes thought up by Ken Read and his team."
The Blooper Reel of PUMA Ocean Racing is now available for viewing and download at:
"Just because the Volvo Ocean Race is over does not mean that we've fallen asleep here at PUMA Ocean Racing. In fact, we have been working on a few films. Here is the first post race films, The Blooper Reel of PUMA's il mostro.
After nine months of sailing around the world, and being filmed in the process, the crew got used to have MCM Rick Deppe's camera on deck. It just seemed natural to have film rolling 24 hours a day. Luckily for us, there were some memorable quotes thought up by Ken Read and his team."
The Blooper Reel of PUMA Ocean Racing is now available for viewing and download at:
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Kitty Bite: PUMA Makes An Impressive Debut At Moth Worlds 2009
The Moth Worlds have come and gone, but a lovely re-cap from the Puma Press Peeps on an excellent debut:
Brad Funk Places in the Top Ten Sailing a PUMA Bladerider Moth!
"Boston, MA (August 18, 2009) – PUMA Ocean Racing Ambassador, Brad Funk of Florida made an impressive debut at the Moth Worlds 2009 on The Gorge in Cascade Locks, Oregon USA, sailing a PUMA Bladerider Moth. Well known for his Laser sailing, Funk placed in the top ten in the overall competition. PUMA had two branded Moths at The Gorge.
PUMA Moth sailors were outfitted in pieces from the PUMA Sailing Performance collection on and off the water. Their gear included the PUMA One Design Spray Top, PUMA’s Windstopper Softshell Jacket, PUMA Sailing One Design Shorts and Sailing Barrel Bags, which were a favorite of the PUMA Ocean racing team on their boat il mostro during the Volvo Ocean Racing 2008-2009.
Starting out in the Moth is no simple task and the class includes some of the best dinghy sailors in the world. Many of the sailors who are in the top half of the fleet have been sailing the Moth for at least two years. That’s the normal amount of time it takes for a sailor to get comfortable and really proficient at sailing this highly technical boat. But Brad, who has been sailing the Moth on and off for a year and never in a competitive situation, has found the boat to be exciting and challenging. Judging from his eighth place finish at Moth Worlds, he’s catching on quickly.
What makes his eighth place even more impressive is that Brad is still training full time in his Laser, working on a campaign for the 2012 Olympics. Immediately after hitting the beach on Saturday, Brad jumped a flight headed to Halifax, Nova Scotia for Laser Worlds.
“I’m really happy to have finished in the top ten at Moth Worlds. My goal going into the event was to try and hang with the top guys. I’m still learning about the boat and there are still things that I need to work on, but I’m making progress.”
“This boat requires a lot more attention to detail than Laser sailing. There is always boat work to be done and little tweaks to be made. At first I found this really frustrating because I just wanted to get out there and sail, but I’m learning that the extra time you spend working on the boat really does make a difference out on the water.”
“Now it’s time to put the Moth sailing to the side for bit and focus on sailing my Laser. But I’ll be back on the Moth soon- it’s nice to be able to switch up my routine once in a while. The Moth class has great potential to give our sport some new excitement. It will be interesting to see what’s possible as the level of talent and boats progress, and it will be fun to see what a company like PUMA can bring to the class.”
Brad first joined the PUMA family during the Volvo Ocean Race stopover in Boston. He, along with wife and Olympic gold medalist Anna Tunnicliffe sailed the PUMA Moths and served as PUMA Sailing Ambassadors. Brad and Anna help coach a PUMA Moth clinic, inviting local college sailors to try the Moths on Boston Harbor. Over the course of six days, the coaches introduced approximately thirty college sailors to the Moth and PUMA Sailing. Brad and Anna also joined the PUMA Ocean Racing crew il mostro for a day of training prior to the start of Leg 6 in the Volvo Ocean Race. "
Brad Funk Places in the Top Ten Sailing a PUMA Bladerider Moth!"Boston, MA (August 18, 2009) – PUMA Ocean Racing Ambassador, Brad Funk of Florida made an impressive debut at the Moth Worlds 2009 on The Gorge in Cascade Locks, Oregon USA, sailing a PUMA Bladerider Moth. Well known for his Laser sailing, Funk placed in the top ten in the overall competition. PUMA had two branded Moths at The Gorge.
PUMA Moth sailors were outfitted in pieces from the PUMA Sailing Performance collection on and off the water. Their gear included the PUMA One Design Spray Top, PUMA’s Windstopper Softshell Jacket, PUMA Sailing One Design Shorts and Sailing Barrel Bags, which were a favorite of the PUMA Ocean racing team on their boat il mostro during the Volvo Ocean Racing 2008-2009.
Starting out in the Moth is no simple task and the class includes some of the best dinghy sailors in the world. Many of the sailors who are in the top half of the fleet have been sailing the Moth for at least two years. That’s the normal amount of time it takes for a sailor to get comfortable and really proficient at sailing this highly technical boat. But Brad, who has been sailing the Moth on and off for a year and never in a competitive situation, has found the boat to be exciting and challenging. Judging from his eighth place finish at Moth Worlds, he’s catching on quickly.
What makes his eighth place even more impressive is that Brad is still training full time in his Laser, working on a campaign for the 2012 Olympics. Immediately after hitting the beach on Saturday, Brad jumped a flight headed to Halifax, Nova Scotia for Laser Worlds.
“I’m really happy to have finished in the top ten at Moth Worlds. My goal going into the event was to try and hang with the top guys. I’m still learning about the boat and there are still things that I need to work on, but I’m making progress.”
“This boat requires a lot more attention to detail than Laser sailing. There is always boat work to be done and little tweaks to be made. At first I found this really frustrating because I just wanted to get out there and sail, but I’m learning that the extra time you spend working on the boat really does make a difference out on the water.”
“Now it’s time to put the Moth sailing to the side for bit and focus on sailing my Laser. But I’ll be back on the Moth soon- it’s nice to be able to switch up my routine once in a while. The Moth class has great potential to give our sport some new excitement. It will be interesting to see what’s possible as the level of talent and boats progress, and it will be fun to see what a company like PUMA can bring to the class.”
Brad first joined the PUMA family during the Volvo Ocean Race stopover in Boston. He, along with wife and Olympic gold medalist Anna Tunnicliffe sailed the PUMA Moths and served as PUMA Sailing Ambassadors. Brad and Anna help coach a PUMA Moth clinic, inviting local college sailors to try the Moths on Boston Harbor. Over the course of six days, the coaches introduced approximately thirty college sailors to the Moth and PUMA Sailing. Brad and Anna also joined the PUMA Ocean Racing crew il mostro for a day of training prior to the start of Leg 6 in the Volvo Ocean Race. "
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Puma Bite: Chatting With Glenn Raphael
From Our PR Puma Peeps:
In preparing for Moth Worlds, we had a chance to chat with Glenn Raphael, who will be sailing one of our PUMA Moths out in Oregon next week.
Let’s start off easy…what got you started in sailing?
G: I was introduced to sailing at about five years old when my father purchased a small sailing dinghy for my older sister. Although barely being able to swim I would kick her off and sail it. My father was a competitive sailor as well as a lot of my family. I grew up at yacht clubs, so it was pretty much a sure thing.
Why sail a foiling moth? How does it compare to other boats you’ve sailed?
G: If not for the speed and excitement what else? The Moth class is growing at such a rapid rate, and after moving to Dubai, it was the obvious choice for someone who is into skiff racing. You don’t have to worry about a crew and you can rig up and head out sailing in less than 15 minutes. It is extremely difficult to compare to anything else I have sailed and the acceleration and silence when foiling is unreal.
What do you think the Moth brings to the sport of sailing?
G: High performance, single handed racing that is interesting to watch.
With Moth Worlds two weeks away, what are you doing to prepare for the events? Any special training routines?
G: My routine has been a combination of circuit training and on water sessions. In Dubai now with air temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius and water temperature currently about 37 degrees, on water training has been very demanding for the last month. Chris Graham and I have been training together a lot over the past six months.
Just before Moth Worlds, there is the Dash-4-Cash. Can you explain this event?
G: I’m not sure on the exact format of the race yet. Imagine it will be a downwind race from Cascade Locks. First place takes the Cash!!! A similar event is scheduled for Dubai known as “Around the World,” around the World Island Development.
Glenn, what is happening on the sailing scene in Dubai?
G: Dubai in terms of Moth Racing is developing really well with the World Championships there next March. We have around 13 Moths racing in the UAE and more on the way. In addition to the Moth Sailing, there is a reasonable size Laser fleet and a strong IRC racing scene. The two Dubai based professional teams (Sea Dubai – RC 44 and Team Aqua - RC44 & Extreme 40) do very well in helping to promote sailing in Dubai on the World Stage. There is always plenty of talk around town about the America’s Cup, due to Emirates Airlines’ involvement and potential Volvo Ocean Race Stopovers as well, let’s see.
Question for both of you, other than sailing, what sports are you a fan of (either playing or watching)?
G: When I have time I like to enjoy the beach or any sport on the water. Luckily in Dubai you can do this almost all year round.
Visit Puma Ocean Racing!
In preparing for Moth Worlds, we had a chance to chat with Glenn Raphael, who will be sailing one of our PUMA Moths out in Oregon next week.
Let’s start off easy…what got you started in sailing?
G: I was introduced to sailing at about five years old when my father purchased a small sailing dinghy for my older sister. Although barely being able to swim I would kick her off and sail it. My father was a competitive sailor as well as a lot of my family. I grew up at yacht clubs, so it was pretty much a sure thing.
Why sail a foiling moth? How does it compare to other boats you’ve sailed?
G: If not for the speed and excitement what else? The Moth class is growing at such a rapid rate, and after moving to Dubai, it was the obvious choice for someone who is into skiff racing. You don’t have to worry about a crew and you can rig up and head out sailing in less than 15 minutes. It is extremely difficult to compare to anything else I have sailed and the acceleration and silence when foiling is unreal.
What do you think the Moth brings to the sport of sailing?
G: High performance, single handed racing that is interesting to watch.
With Moth Worlds two weeks away, what are you doing to prepare for the events? Any special training routines?
G: My routine has been a combination of circuit training and on water sessions. In Dubai now with air temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius and water temperature currently about 37 degrees, on water training has been very demanding for the last month. Chris Graham and I have been training together a lot over the past six months.
Just before Moth Worlds, there is the Dash-4-Cash. Can you explain this event?
G: I’m not sure on the exact format of the race yet. Imagine it will be a downwind race from Cascade Locks. First place takes the Cash!!! A similar event is scheduled for Dubai known as “Around the World,” around the World Island Development.
Glenn, what is happening on the sailing scene in Dubai?
G: Dubai in terms of Moth Racing is developing really well with the World Championships there next March. We have around 13 Moths racing in the UAE and more on the way. In addition to the Moth Sailing, there is a reasonable size Laser fleet and a strong IRC racing scene. The two Dubai based professional teams (Sea Dubai – RC 44 and Team Aqua - RC44 & Extreme 40) do very well in helping to promote sailing in Dubai on the World Stage. There is always plenty of talk around town about the America’s Cup, due to Emirates Airlines’ involvement and potential Volvo Ocean Race Stopovers as well, let’s see.
Question for both of you, other than sailing, what sports are you a fan of (either playing or watching)?
G: When I have time I like to enjoy the beach or any sport on the water. Luckily in Dubai you can do this almost all year round.
Visit Puma Ocean Racing!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Here Come The Puma Moths!
From our friends at Puma Ocean Racing...
Get Back Out There!
The PUMA Ocean Racing Bladerider Moths will be sailing in the 2009 International Moth World Championships. This event will take place August 6 – 15 in Cascade Locks, Oregon, USA.
Moth Worlds are one of the premier events in competitive dinghy sailing, attracting top-level sailors from around the globe. The entry roster includes countries such as the United States, Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Japan, and Belgium.
After finishing an amazing journey with PUMA's boat 'il mostro' in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA Ocean Racing is excited to have two top sailors compete in the Moth Worlds using the PUMA Bladeriders. PUMA Ocean Racing is all about high adrenaline sailing and the foiling Moths that 'fly' over the water are another exciting way to bring that to the sailing audience and beyond. The foiling moth class is relatively new, but features some of the best young talent.
PUMA's Moths will be sailed by Brad Funk (USA) and Glenn Raphael (AUS). These are the very same boats that joined the PUMA Ocean Racing Volvo Ocean Race crew in the stopovers around the world.
Brad returns to the PUMA family after sailing the Moths during the Volvo Ocean Race Boston Stopover. He is currently sailing in the Laser and International Moth Classes. Additionally, Brad sailed in the Laser Worlds in 2007 and 2008, and he's slated to attend the 2009 Laser Worlds a week after finishing Moth Worlds. A candidate for the 2008 Olympics, Brad is currently campaigning for the 2012 games.
Glenn Raphael is a welcomed addition to the PUMA program. Hailing from Australia and now living in the United Arab Emirates, Glenn has vast experience on the international sailing scene. He’s currently sailing in the International Moth Class and has participated in both the 18-foot skiff and Olympic 49er classes. This will be Glenn's third appearance at the Moth Worlds, having sailed there in 2007 and 2008.
PUMA will be blogging from the 2009 Moth Worlds on http://www.pumaoceanracing.com as well as following the event on the PUMA Ocean Racing Facebook page, through Twitter updates and posting event photos on Flickr.
Note From Jenn: Puma does an amazing job getting the story out with personality...follow along, you'll enjoy the scoop!
Get Back Out There!
The PUMA Ocean Racing Bladerider Moths will be sailing in the 2009 International Moth World Championships. This event will take place August 6 – 15 in Cascade Locks, Oregon, USA.
Moth Worlds are one of the premier events in competitive dinghy sailing, attracting top-level sailors from around the globe. The entry roster includes countries such as the United States, Australia, Great Britain, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Japan, and Belgium.
After finishing an amazing journey with PUMA's boat 'il mostro' in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA Ocean Racing is excited to have two top sailors compete in the Moth Worlds using the PUMA Bladeriders. PUMA Ocean Racing is all about high adrenaline sailing and the foiling Moths that 'fly' over the water are another exciting way to bring that to the sailing audience and beyond. The foiling moth class is relatively new, but features some of the best young talent.
PUMA's Moths will be sailed by Brad Funk (USA) and Glenn Raphael (AUS). These are the very same boats that joined the PUMA Ocean Racing Volvo Ocean Race crew in the stopovers around the world.
Brad returns to the PUMA family after sailing the Moths during the Volvo Ocean Race Boston Stopover. He is currently sailing in the Laser and International Moth Classes. Additionally, Brad sailed in the Laser Worlds in 2007 and 2008, and he's slated to attend the 2009 Laser Worlds a week after finishing Moth Worlds. A candidate for the 2008 Olympics, Brad is currently campaigning for the 2012 games.
Glenn Raphael is a welcomed addition to the PUMA program. Hailing from Australia and now living in the United Arab Emirates, Glenn has vast experience on the international sailing scene. He’s currently sailing in the International Moth Class and has participated in both the 18-foot skiff and Olympic 49er classes. This will be Glenn's third appearance at the Moth Worlds, having sailed there in 2007 and 2008.
PUMA will be blogging from the 2009 Moth Worlds on http://www.pumaoceanracing.com as well as following the event on the PUMA Ocean Racing Facebook page, through Twitter updates and posting event photos on Flickr.
Note From Jenn: Puma does an amazing job getting the story out with personality...follow along, you'll enjoy the scoop!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Nearly There: Volvo Ocean Race Stockholm
The Volvo Ocean Race "circus" is nearly done with it's global tour. Currently there is not enough coffee or hours in the day to keep pace as it feels someone has hit the fast forward button. Fast forward seems the theme, since arriving into Sweden it's been the most intense sailing-related trip to date. Just when I've sorted out the public transportation system of Gothenburg to Marstrand (it makes getting around Boston seem like child's play;) I'm packing up for a road trip to Stockholm.
We did not get on the road till nearly 10:00pm Sunday evening, however with the long days it felt like 5:00pm till when we finally rolled into Stockholm at 4:00am Monday morning when it looked and felt more like 6:00am...are you still with me? Basically drove through the night, though the "night" is about two hours long.
We sorted ourselves, selves being much of the media crew and made a bee-line to bed. The boats at this point were ripping it up and word was we needed to get sorted quickly as the ferry ride out to Sandham, a lovely Swedish island was nearly a 3 hour meander away.
So, we all took a nap, far from a sleep and a couple hours later, after discovering that the Stockholm Race Village could legally be mapped as a "small town" - it's massive, making Boston's Fan Pier seem nothing more than a street corner affair.
The old Pirate's of the Caribbean is on site, formally owned by Mean Machine's Peter DeRidder and now named the White il Mostro is quite striking.
As I got my legs and meander about the village, yet to see more than a quarter of the offerings, it's time to gather for the ferry ride to Sandham.
The ferry ride, though long, was AMAZING. The islands are gorgeous. The little homes perched about on the rocks - beautiful. Many of us found ourselves perched on the upper deck, bundled and huddled to stay warm, though unable to tear ourselves away from the view.
When we arrived into Sandham, we had about two hours before Puma and Ericsson 3 were expected to cross the line. This again kept the pace - quick, quick.
In fact, basically discovered the temporary media center, hit the head, checked email and headed out. When you are so focused, sleep, eating, etc. are all put on the back burner and the body goes into another mode, which I am just now coming out of two days later. Just part of the lifestyle and worth it. This has been an incredible venture made perfect with the spectacular finish between Puma and Ericsson 3.
There are no pictures to perfectly paint the insanity on the water as these two boats match raced all the way to the end. A Volvo 70 tacking dual, true test of the sailors endurance on such an impressive, powerful and exhausting boat. Now add in an impressive spectator fleet. They had to perform this impressive show of crew-work in the middle of it all. In the end, Puma prevailed as Ericsson 3's jib did not pass through cleanly during one tack, getting hung up on the radar mounted mid-way up the mast.
Would it have been lovely for the delightful Magnus Olsson and his E3 crew to take this leg, oh yes! What a party it would have been. However, Puma earned this leg win and was quite impressive and exciting.
Shortly after Puma and Ericsson 3 secured their lines, showered in champagne and endured the obligatory photo shoot; Ericsson 4 quietly slipped into port. Followed by the Green Dragon, Tele Black and Delta Lloyd. When the last boat was processed, media and sailors gathered for the ferry ride back into Stockholm. The shore-crews swapped their inland berths for the sailors while they stayed in Sandham to look after the boats and prepare for today's Sprint race into Stockholm.
We sailed back into Stockholm just before 5:00am and a repeat of the prior morning took place...straight to bed for a "nap" and back to work. I was joined on the ferry by Delta Lloyd's Wouter Verbraak, Nick Bice and Eduard van Lierde and found it quite impossible to fall asleep! Between the lovely rising sun, these boys where wide awake! Well, not Eduard, who had a serious case of the "snaps," poor chap!
The trouble was, they too had never been to this region of Sweden and with the dawn already upon us, the sites - beautiful.
The tale is longer than that, so merely a briefing on the last two days. A lovely way to reflect back and await the teams arrivals into port. Earlier this morning the shore-crews motored the boats part way, where they met the sailors and VIPs to participate in a sprint race for the final bit. A nice alternative since people could not enjoy the arrivals into Sandham.
More to come...
We did not get on the road till nearly 10:00pm Sunday evening, however with the long days it felt like 5:00pm till when we finally rolled into Stockholm at 4:00am Monday morning when it looked and felt more like 6:00am...are you still with me? Basically drove through the night, though the "night" is about two hours long.
We sorted ourselves, selves being much of the media crew and made a bee-line to bed. The boats at this point were ripping it up and word was we needed to get sorted quickly as the ferry ride out to Sandham, a lovely Swedish island was nearly a 3 hour meander away.
So, we all took a nap, far from a sleep and a couple hours later, after discovering that the Stockholm Race Village could legally be mapped as a "small town" - it's massive, making Boston's Fan Pier seem nothing more than a street corner affair.
The old Pirate's of the Caribbean is on site, formally owned by Mean Machine's Peter DeRidder and now named the White il Mostro is quite striking.
As I got my legs and meander about the village, yet to see more than a quarter of the offerings, it's time to gather for the ferry ride to Sandham.
The ferry ride, though long, was AMAZING. The islands are gorgeous. The little homes perched about on the rocks - beautiful. Many of us found ourselves perched on the upper deck, bundled and huddled to stay warm, though unable to tear ourselves away from the view.
When we arrived into Sandham, we had about two hours before Puma and Ericsson 3 were expected to cross the line. This again kept the pace - quick, quick.
In fact, basically discovered the temporary media center, hit the head, checked email and headed out. When you are so focused, sleep, eating, etc. are all put on the back burner and the body goes into another mode, which I am just now coming out of two days later. Just part of the lifestyle and worth it. This has been an incredible venture made perfect with the spectacular finish between Puma and Ericsson 3.
There are no pictures to perfectly paint the insanity on the water as these two boats match raced all the way to the end. A Volvo 70 tacking dual, true test of the sailors endurance on such an impressive, powerful and exhausting boat. Now add in an impressive spectator fleet. They had to perform this impressive show of crew-work in the middle of it all. In the end, Puma prevailed as Ericsson 3's jib did not pass through cleanly during one tack, getting hung up on the radar mounted mid-way up the mast.
Would it have been lovely for the delightful Magnus Olsson and his E3 crew to take this leg, oh yes! What a party it would have been. However, Puma earned this leg win and was quite impressive and exciting.
Shortly after Puma and Ericsson 3 secured their lines, showered in champagne and endured the obligatory photo shoot; Ericsson 4 quietly slipped into port. Followed by the Green Dragon, Tele Black and Delta Lloyd. When the last boat was processed, media and sailors gathered for the ferry ride back into Stockholm. The shore-crews swapped their inland berths for the sailors while they stayed in Sandham to look after the boats and prepare for today's Sprint race into Stockholm.
We sailed back into Stockholm just before 5:00am and a repeat of the prior morning took place...straight to bed for a "nap" and back to work. I was joined on the ferry by Delta Lloyd's Wouter Verbraak, Nick Bice and Eduard van Lierde and found it quite impossible to fall asleep! Between the lovely rising sun, these boys where wide awake! Well, not Eduard, who had a serious case of the "snaps," poor chap!
The trouble was, they too had never been to this region of Sweden and with the dawn already upon us, the sites - beautiful.
The tale is longer than that, so merely a briefing on the last two days. A lovely way to reflect back and await the teams arrivals into port. Earlier this morning the shore-crews motored the boats part way, where they met the sailors and VIPs to participate in a sprint race for the final bit. A nice alternative since people could not enjoy the arrivals into Sandham.
More to come...
Sunday, May 03, 2009
The "Kitty" Backs College Sailing
I'll be the first to admit being leary of Puma's intentions when they came into the sailing scene, even more so of the idea that Puma gear would provide serious protection from Mother Nature's wrath. I've been pleasantly swayed in favor of the kitty's support. Further more, impressed with the enthusiasm and last minute support to the ICSA National Semi-Finals here at Fan Pier.
To top it all off, looks cool!
So a shout out to Puma for embracing the sport. For all you folks still on the fence, I've put the gear to the test and DRY DRY DRY.
One last little thank you goes to Puma's marketing, creative media department and public relations. The video footage rocks the socks of anyone interested in a good story. Especially this collaboration with RipeTV:
To top it all off, looks cool!
So a shout out to Puma for embracing the sport. For all you folks still on the fence, I've put the gear to the test and DRY DRY DRY.
One last little thank you goes to Puma's marketing, creative media department and public relations. The video footage rocks the socks of anyone interested in a good story. Especially this collaboration with RipeTV:
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Late Night Snack
It's about 7:30pm EST and just getting caught up on the VOR scoop. It was pretty clear Ericsson4 was taking the Leg2 win, but nothing is final till that dear old fat lady sings. The Telefonica Blue boys are playing the stealthy move for their final run but odds are good for them to take the second piece of glass.
In the mean time, perused through the image database and for the mates who love a good shot of weather and clouds, these two images captured by MCM Rick Deppe from team Puma are outstanding:
Hope everyone reading had a lovely holiday if an American and otherwise, simply hope all are well! Back to recovering from my Thanksgiving food coma and will carry on with the BoatBites Monday morning ~ Cheers
In the mean time, perused through the image database and for the mates who love a good shot of weather and clouds, these two images captured by MCM Rick Deppe from team Puma are outstanding:
Hope everyone reading had a lovely holiday if an American and otherwise, simply hope all are well! Back to recovering from my Thanksgiving food coma and will carry on with the BoatBites Monday morning ~ Cheers
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Life At The Extreme Demands An Extreme Personality!
My pick for an extremely positive sailing/life role model is Jerry Kirby, crew member of Puma Ocean Racing. Oddly enough, being a sailing fitness enthusiast, caught him on his way to the gym this afternoon. He still indulged me with a lovely conversation about Puma’s pleasure in being apart of the event, having received more exposure than anticipated and some encouraging words for those dismayed with impact the America’s Cup drama has had on the perception of sailing.
For starters, the Volvo Ocean Race is NOT the America’s cup. Jerry reminded me there is not and should not be any comparison. In case folks considered such a though, stop. So for those who only know about sailing through the America’s Cup venue, what are they to expect from this sailing venue.
Passion for sailing at its rawest form and an ocean full of personality!
As scenes from last Volvo played on a screen over head, Jerry watched with earnest and huge grin on his face, the passion Jerry carries for this race is infectious. We paused in conversation while he relived the moment and I realized one of the clips was my “pick-up video” for when you have “one of those days.”
Jerry Kirby has the perfect attitude and personality for this level of sailing, but for the sport as a whole. One knows he tackles life the same way and it was a treat to catch him today. To be reminded that in the shadows of sailing is this incredible race around the world, with participants possessing incredible personalities and a passion for one thing. The purest sailing experience possible.
So while Alinghi and BMW Oracle duke it out, why get caught up in the negative drama? Right now, here in Alicante the start of a new story is getting ready, think of the next two weeks like reading a Prelude to a great novel. Chapter one starts on October 13th but till then, there is much to be sorted! Including an import race on the 4th.
I broke the ice with a familiar face today, but Jerry Kirby is not the only positively spirited sailor here packed with personality. No time to be shy in Alicante...
Media, media, media....
The Volvo Ocean Race Website (sort of obvious I guess..)
Sailing World: My daily blogs, short bits through the day.
SailTrim Blog: I want to keep things short on the SW blog, so scope this out for lenghty bits. If something really major occurs and breaks my 400-600 word limit. I'll post it on SailTrim's News Page.
Photo Album:
For starters, the Volvo Ocean Race is NOT the America’s cup. Jerry reminded me there is not and should not be any comparison. In case folks considered such a though, stop. So for those who only know about sailing through the America’s Cup venue, what are they to expect from this sailing venue.
Passion for sailing at its rawest form and an ocean full of personality!
As scenes from last Volvo played on a screen over head, Jerry watched with earnest and huge grin on his face, the passion Jerry carries for this race is infectious. We paused in conversation while he relived the moment and I realized one of the clips was my “pick-up video” for when you have “one of those days.”
Jerry Kirby has the perfect attitude and personality for this level of sailing, but for the sport as a whole. One knows he tackles life the same way and it was a treat to catch him today. To be reminded that in the shadows of sailing is this incredible race around the world, with participants possessing incredible personalities and a passion for one thing. The purest sailing experience possible.
So while Alinghi and BMW Oracle duke it out, why get caught up in the negative drama? Right now, here in Alicante the start of a new story is getting ready, think of the next two weeks like reading a Prelude to a great novel. Chapter one starts on October 13th but till then, there is much to be sorted! Including an import race on the 4th.
I broke the ice with a familiar face today, but Jerry Kirby is not the only positively spirited sailor here packed with personality. No time to be shy in Alicante...
Media, media, media....
The Volvo Ocean Race Website (sort of obvious I guess..)
Sailing World: My daily blogs, short bits through the day.
SailTrim Blog: I want to keep things short on the SW blog, so scope this out for lenghty bits. If something really major occurs and breaks my 400-600 word limit. I'll post it on SailTrim's News Page.
Photo Album:
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