Well July 2011 is here and those of you that have been working with me regularly over the last few months will be aware that I am taking the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong ambition and take part in the Clipper 2011/12 Round the World Yacht Race. The race starts in Southampton at the end of July 2011 and includes legs to Rio, Cape Town, Western Australia, New Zealand, Eastern Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Qiungdao, San Fransisco, Panama, New York, Ireland, The Netherlands and back to Southampton. The race takes place on ‘one-design’ 68 foot ocean going racing yachts, specially designed for the rigours of southern ocean downwind sailing.
I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all clients, colleagues and friends for their support and wish them all a prosperous and happy 12 months whilst I’m away. The plan is to return to my desk in August 2012, probably rather slimmer, battered and with a smile on my face! In the meantime, if you need to speak with me I can be contacted via skype: The address is ‘markburkes’. Obviously, I may be a little busy changing sails on the foredeck, but I will endeavour to get back to you as soon as I can.
All the best,
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 2011/12
Mark Burkes
Director
