Positionstabelle
05.03.2005
05.03.2005
www.conradhumphreys.com
HELLOMOTO Race Update No. 69, 050305
HUMPHREYS GETS A HERO’S HOMECOMING
The West Country gave local solo round the world yachtsman, Conrad Humphreys a true hero’s welcome today as he sailed back into his home town of Plymouth.
Humphreys, onboard Hellomoto, was met by a fleet of spectator boats which included family, friends and many supporters who have followed Hellomoto’s epic 28,000 mile circumnavigation of the globe in the Vendee Globe yacht race.
Conrad completed the race on February 20th in 7th place but sailing into home waters for the first time today and was officially welcomed ashore by the Lord Mayor of Plymouth. He was also greeted by crowds of spectators who lined the dockside to watch as Hellomoto entered Plymouth Sound and then moored alongside at the QAB marina. Following his arrival Conrad took to the stage where he recounted details of the race against a backdrop of never before seen footage of Hellomoto’s round the world voyage.
Speaking from the dockside, Conrad Humphreys said “The reception I have received today has been staggering. I could never have imagined that so many people would come out to see us home – I am truly humbled. I have sailed into many harbours including Sydney, Cape Town and Auckland, but arriving in Plymouth is particularly special. It is one of the most spectacular natural arenas in the world and a magnificent stage for a homecoming. When I sailed out of Plymouth 5 months ago I looked over my shoulder and hoped that the next time I was here would be after sailing around the globe. To be home is fantastic and to be greeted by this is just amazing. Thank you to everyone who has come out to see us today and to all those who followed our progress round the world.”
Other highlights of the ceremony included a message from the West Country’s other sailing hero Pete Goss, Conrad signing the 2012 Olympic flag with the 27th Plymouth Scout Group who have followed his race and he was also joined on stage by Plymouth’s Olympic sailing hopefuls James and Dan Ellis.
Margaret Rice – Jones, Corporate Vice President, Motorola inc and General Manager, Networks EMEA commented “Conrad’s participation in the Vendee Globe has been an inspiration to us all. In successfully replacing Hellomoto’s rudder and continuing in the race, a task never completed before, Conrad showed a determination and focus that demonstrates what can be achieved when you really put your mind towards achieving your goal.”
“The Ocean Racing team displayed incredible team work throughout the race as well as creativity and innovation which enabled Conrad to complete the Vendee Globe. It is this sense of innovation that also drives Motorola with over 75 years as a leader in the fast-moving world of communications.”
Following the ceremony, where Conrad officially announced his intention to compete in the 2008 Vendee Globe, Charles Howeson, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce pledged £1,000 towards Conrad’s future campaign. In his speech Howeson urged other local business to do the same building on Conrad’s fantastic achievement and use it as a stepping stone for the future.
ENDS
Motorola Ocean Racing Team web site: www.conradhumphreys.com
Media enquiries, interviews & ‘Homecoming’ photography:
Mary Ambler, Communications Manager – Motorola Ocean Racing Team
Email: mary@o6t.com - Tel: +44 (0) 1752 600111 - Mob: +44 (0) 7887 643583
Camilla Green – Pitch PR
Email: camilla@pitchpr.co.uk – Tel: +44 (0)20 7494 1616 – Mob: +44 (0)7970746482
APP Broadcast Television Production Service - broadcasters can request archive and VNR footage via APP Broadcast team. Contact Sarah Funnelle: sfunnelle@appbroadcast.com - Tel: +44 (0)208 964 4992 – Mob: +44 (0)7870 385086
Photography from the Vendée Globe race: www.dppi.net - media will need to register for a password to access high resolution photography. High resolution aerial, onboard & portrait photography of Conrad Humphreys is also available on request to Mary Ambler.
Motorola Online Media Centre
www.motorola.com/mediacenter
Vendée Globe Official Race web site
www.vendeeglobe.org/uk
Motorola Online Media Centre
www.motorola.com/mediacenter
About Conrad Humphreys and O6T
Conrad Humphreys, 32, from Devon, is an inspirational team leader and world-class British yachtsman who in 2001 became the youngest ever skipper to win the BT Global Challenge. His ambition is to compete on the international Open 60 racing circuit for the 2004-05 FICO-Lacoste World Championship title. O6T is the management company for the Motorola Ocean Racing Programme, and delivers a range of major PR, relationship building and team & leadership development opportunities to business. For more information: www.conradhumphreys.com / www.o6t.com
|