Dee Caffari’s final preparations for The Aviva Challenge gathered pace today as the yacht Aviva was officially named in a traditional ceremony at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, England.
Dee Caffari's final preparations for The Aviva Challenge gathered pace today as the yacht Aviva was officially named in a traditional ceremony at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, England.
The boat was named by one of Dee Caffari's biggest fans - eight-year-old Amelia Hackett, from Plymouth.
Amelia was chosen because she represents the young generation of people that Dee is hoping to inspire with her record-breaking round-the world attempt.
They were joined at the naming ceremony by Sir Chay Blyth, Caffari's mentor for this voyage and the first person to sail this route 34 years ago, and Patrick Snowball, executive director of Aviva.
Modified
During The Aviva Challenge, former schoolteacher Dee will be sailing single-handed the 72-foot yacht that she skippered with a crew of 18 in the last Global Challenge race.
The yacht has been modified to enable her to sail it single-handedly. The trip is expected to last between 120 and 170 days, of which approximately 80 days will be spent in the treacherous Southern Ocean.
Throughout The Aviva Challenge, Dee will face some of the toughest physical challenges in the sport, including 40-foot waves, extreme temperatures and lack of sleep.
"The last few weeks have been really busy but I can't wait to set out on this voyage. My main aim is to achieve that last ‘first' which is still out there for a female yachtswoman. I've got an excellent team supporting me and I'm in the best possible shape to succeed," said Dee.
Character
Sir Chay Blyth said: "I believe Dee has the right character to be successful in her mission to complete this circumnavigation. It takes a particular type of person to want to take on such a challenge and I know Dee will relish the various tests.
Patrick Snowball said: "Dee epitomises the spirit of Aviva's new marketing campaign - 'Forward thinking' - which celebrates the benefits of thinking and behaving in a progressive way.
"The Aviva Challenge came about because we identified with Dee's desire to push the boundaries and become a leader in her own field. Above all, Dee's passion and commitment to The Aviva Challenge reflect our belief that, with drive, energy and vision, people can achieve extraordinary things."
Follow Dee's progress on www.avivaoceanracing.com/avivachallenge (this link will open a new browser window).