Emma Derby_Main

Emma Derby

Exeter sailor selected to represent GB at Commodores’ Cup

Third year medical student, Emma Derby, has been selected to compete for RYA Team GBR White at one of the most prestigious events on the international yachting calendar.

The Brewin Dolphin Commodore’s Cup will take place in Cowes, Isle of Wight, from 21 – 28 July.  A tough mix of inshore and offshore racing, the international regatta is an intense seven-day programme for IRC (endorsed) rated yachts that will take place in and around the Solent.

Following rigorously competitive trials including racing in bitterly cold conditions, Emma, who has sailed regularly for the University and in multiple national events, was selected to race for team GBR White on the Philosophie (Beneteau First 40.7).  Stacey Clark, Chairman of the Commodores’ Cup Selection Committee, commented:
“The selection trials have been extremely competitive with just seconds between the boats on both the inshore and offshore races. We were very impressed by the standard of racing and have decided to enter four teams for the Cup. The Red, White and Blue teams will be very competitive against the other national teams.”

Following the final selection weekend in May the GBR team have been training regularly and Emma has reported that the run-up to the regatta has been busy with training and national competitions taking place weekly in preparation for the 11th biennial Commodores’ Cup later this month. In 2008 RYA Team GBR won the Cup and narrowly missed out to Ireland in 2010. An RYA spokesperson commented:
“…the best possible combination of boats and crews has been selected to ensure victory this summer and also help develop strength in depth for future years.”

Nick Beasant, Assistant Director of Sport (Performance and Competitions) said:
"It's great to see another university of Exeter sailor gaining selection for an RYA Team GBR squad. Having won this year's British Universities and Colleges Sport Yachting Championships, it's excellent that our students are translating this success on to the international stage. We wish Emma good luck in what I'm sure will be a challenging yet fulfilling competition."

Date: 24 July 2012