Andrew Baker to race #SeaChange in the Solitaire Bompard Le Figaro

Andrew Baker on #SeaChange arrives in Deauville for the Solitaire © Artemis Offshore Academy

British solo sailor Andrew Baker is proud to announce his support of UKSA's inspirational youth development campaign '#SeaChange' during the 2016 Solitaire Bompard Le Figaro.

#SeaChange provides life-changing opportunities to schools and groups, disadvantaged and disaffected young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs) and young offenders. A common theme for many of these individuals is the low expectation they have of themselves and #SeaChange challenges them to transform and to create opportunities for themselves.

By naming Baker's blue and white Figaro #SeaChange ahead of the 1525nm race between Deauville, Cowes, Paimpol and La Rochelle, the sailor hopes to raise awareness of the initiative among sailing fans, the media and public across the United Kingdom. For UKSA, Baker is the perfect ambassador to inspire support.

"I'm proud to be supporting the #SeaChange campaign during the Solitaire Bompard Le Figaro and hope through my connection with UKSA and participation in this epic race I am able inspire young people to get into sailing," he said.

Out sailing with his Dad as soon as he could walk, Baker recognises the importance of getting children into sailing at a young age and the life skills a career on the water can provide.

"#Seachange is a cause I can really relate to," Baker continued. "I've been sailing since a very young age and I have learned so much from the sport. It teaches you about independence, hard work, motivation, determination, camaraderie, the environment and so much more. Being out on the water is such an invaluable experience and I fully support UKSA in their mission."

The official charity of this year's UK Solitaire stopover in Cowes, UKSA will be present in the Race Village between 22nd and 26th June offering try sailing, a sailing simulator, interactive game and fund raising.

Ben Willows, Chief Executive of UKSA, is proud to lend the name to Baker's Figaro for the race, and looks forward to welcoming the sailor to Cowes in a week's time.

"It is fantastic that Andrew has re branded his boat #SeaChange," he said. "We are really proud to be a part of La Solitaire Bompard Le Figaro's UK stopover and to share our #SeaChange message."

"Our ground breaking youth development programmes use water based activities to provide students with both the qualifications and skills to develop themselves. We see first-hand how confidence is developed, as young people are motivated by the prospect of a brighter future; re-engaging with education, further training or a successful transition into to employment."

You can find out more about #SeaChange at www.uksa.org and donate to the charity here: www.justgiving.com/uksa

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