If it hadn’t been already the crew of the Clipper 11-12 Race have had their rock star status confirmed after the prize giving for Race 8 was broadcast live on QTV.

    “It’s great to be here especially as it’s been televised live and it just shows how much interest in sailing there is in China now and how big a part Qingdao are playing,” explains the Chinese entry’s skipper, Ian Conchie.

    “What an amazing evening, amazing performances and obviously great presentation for the top three boats and a bonus for us even though we didn’t have the performance this race we were hoping for.”

    Throughout the Clipper Race fleet’s stay in Qingdao, the crew have been treated like celebrities with requests for photos and autographs becoming a daily occurrence.

    The official prize giving for Race 8 saw De Lage Landen celebrate their first victory of Clipper 11-12, with Geraldton Western Australia and Gold Coast Australia finishing second and third respectively.

    “Absolutely amazing!” reveals Stuart Jackson, skipper of De Lage Landen.

    “The reception we’ve just had and the award ceremony; everyone is delighted. Qingdao has done so much for the crews and to be here is amazing,” reveals Stuart.

    Race 9, Qingdao to California starts on Sunday and will see the fleet take on the Pacific Ocean.