Criterion Duo Shortlisted in British Nautical Awards

Burchell and Graham - Criterion Duo Shortlisted in Major Nautical Awards for Offshore Yachtsman of the Year

Blandford-based Jo Burchell and Lymington's Lorna Graham have been shortlisted in the prestigious 46th British Nautical Awards for the Challenge Business Offshore Yachtsman of the Year Award.

Known as the 'Oscars' of the sailing world, the British Nautical Awards recognise the best in British boating in 11 categories and the finalists, to include fellow contenders for the Award - Ellen MacArthur MBE and 89-year old Atlantic sailor Helen Tew, will be revealed at a star-studded ceremony in London on 4 January, 2002.

Their nomination follows the duo's victory in the 2001 Rolex Fastnet Race in the doublehanded class, for which they won the Brunskill Trophy racing their HOD35 Criterion. They were also the 1st British boat in Class 2 to complete this gruelling offshore race and sailed against 50 fully crewed boats. The event is considered one of the toughest offshore events in the racing calendar, requiring maximum performance and endurance throughout the 608 mile race from Cowes, to the Fastnet Rock and finishing in Plymouth.

Jo and Lorna took part as the Criterion Racing Team and successfully defended their doublehanded title from the 1999 race, completing the Fastnet in just 4 days, 7hrs and 5mins. Having made history in the 1999 Fastnet race, for the first 2-handed crew to take part, the team were also the only all-girl crew in the 2001 event which started from the Royal Yacht Squadron on Sunday 12 August.

Having built up a considerable yacht racing pedigree, both as individuals and as a double-handed team, their ultimate aim is to complete a round the world double-handed challenge. Graham has sailed over 30,000 miles offshore and was granted Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) membership at the age of 19. Burchell was a member of the British women's match racing team, ranked No. 1 in the world. Together, their stamina, endurance and determination has helped them succeed.

Criterion, the Hampshire-based specialist insurance and risk management group made it possible for the renowned offshore yachtswomen to enter the 2001 Rolex Fastnet race. Their commitment also re-confirms the company's growing interest and involvement in the sport of yacht racing.

Jo and Lorna commented "We are both surprised to be nominated for such a prestigious award. To also reach the final three in our category for Yachtsman of the Year against inspirational sailors such as Ellen MacArthur MBE and Helen Tew is a great honour".