First mate Zoe will be taking to high seas to mentor non-pros team in global race

DREAM COMES TRUE FOR CITY SAILOR AS SHE MAKES LINE-UP FOR 40,000 NAUTICAL MILE TEST OF STAMINA

- By TELEGRAPH REPORTER

A DERBY sailor has been selected to help lead a team of non-professionals around the globe in the upcoming edition of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.

Zoe Longley will be taking on the role of first mate, supporting the skipper in racing 40,000 nautical miles around the world when the event gets under way from Portsmouth on August 31.

Zoe said: "I'm very excited about this new challenge with a fantastic organisation. To circumnavigate has been a dream since I first heard about the Golden Globe race. I hope to fulfil that dream and help facilitate the race crew with their own."

The Clipper Race is the only event of its kind which trains people from all walks of life to become ocean racers and take on the endurance challenge of a lifetime.

Each of the teams is led by a professional race skipper and first mate.

The role of first mate is a demanding but rewarding role, offering invaluable experience to further develop a professional sailing career.

These highly-skilled sailors will work closely with their skipper, utilising their sailing experience and supporting the goals of their appointed team.