Pupils to compete in tall ships race

The group of students from Oakbank School will take part in the first leg of the 2011 Tall Ships Race that starts in Waterford, Ireland, tomorrow.

It is the first time the secondary school has taken part in the race series and they will face competition from tall ships from a number of countries.

Their involvement follows a development programme supported by Bradford Council to promote greater participation in adventurous activities, including sail training and other watersports.

In preparation for the race, they have sailed with Maybe Sailing during voyages off the Yorkshire coast, from Whitby and Grimsby and have received sailing and canoeing instruction at Doe Park Sailing Centre.

The council’s executive member for children and young people, Coun Ralph Berry, said: “This trip will show young people the importance of teamwork and it will give the pupils valuable new skills, challenges and lessons in responsibility.”

The race ends in Greenock in Scotland and pupils will return to school on Monday, July 11.