- DAGOC and QNB Sponsor International Yachtsman's Around the World Challenge -

Doha, 20 September 2006: British sailor Tony Bullimore sails off on his catamaran aptly named Doha 2006 in a Doha Asian Games Organising Committee and Qatar National Bank (QNB) sponsored attempt to break the non-stop around-the-world sailing record.

The 67-year-old sea worthy veteran, who had claimed second place in last year's Qryx Quest Round the World race, will set off from Doha later this month.

British compatriot and 28-year-old Ellen MacArthur, DBE, had set the solo circumnavigation record in February 2005 with a time of 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes and 35 seconds.

Ahmed Abdulla Al Kulaifi, Deputy Director General, Corporate Support, DAGOC, said Bullimore's attempt is commendable and will further enhance the image of the Games' and the host city.

"Our support for Doha 2006 boat reflects all that the 15th Asian Games stand for: achievement, solidity and the Spirit of the Games. Bullimore's record will help to inspire everything that is being done in Doha to create the Games of everyone's life", said Al Kulaifi said.

"Once he has completed the round-the-world record-attempting trip, Doha 2006 will return to Doha in time for the 15th Asian Games and act as a promotional platform for the Games, its participants and spectators. I would like to see him scale new peaks and i wish him all the best," he added.

Qatar National Bank (QNB), the Official Bank of the 15th Asian Games Doha 2006 and the co-sponsors with DAGOC share the enthusiasm.

"We are very excited about sponsoring a distinguished athlete of Tony Bullimore's caliber," said Mr. Marwan Maarouf Mahmoud, General Manager Financial Control and Administration at QNB. "Thanks to Bullimore's efforts, the QNB-branded sail will be visible on coastlines worldwide." Mr. Mahmoud also added, "We understand that Bullimore's journey is not an easy one and so, on behalf of QNB, we offer Tony our best wishes in his attempt to set a new sailing world record."

Bullimore will be moving the giant catamaran Doha 2006 to Hobart, Tasmania in Australia to get on the official start line for the attempt at the record.

"The record will be a difficult one to beat," admitted Bullimore, but said he has several things going that could help him end the race as the new world champion.

"The first element is the boat. It should be able to cover 30,000 miles at sea non-stop without breaking. Doha 2006 is a very high technology racing boat. It is not a new one, but over the years, it has been modified to make it better and faster," Bullimore said. "Right now, the boat has the most modern electronic system. I carry for instance three high-end computers and a satellite communications system.

"The second factor is the top physical and mental shape I am in to sail the boat, cook, clean and log reports. Importantly, I also have is a very good weather router who will provide me with updates and warnings of the weather conditions."

"I'm delighted that DAGOC and QNB are sponsoring my world record attempt, and if everything I believe the boat and I are in good shape to do it and make the city of Doha very proud," Bullimore added.

-Ends-

For more information, please contact Doha 2006 Pre-Games Media Centre at:
Hotline: +974 4383833 (from Saturday to Thursday 8.30am until 6pm Doha time) or email: media@dagoc2006.org (for regional media) and APACmedia@dagoc2006.org (for international media)

© Press Release 2006