Jimmy Spithill, skipper and helmsman for Oracle Team USA, has told of his pride at giving back to young Bermudians through the America’s Cup Endeavour Programme.

Mr Spithill, who has previously pledged to donate sponsorship proceeds to the scheme, was quoted in an article on the Oracle website.

The Endeavour Programme will enable students across Bermuda to learn more about sailing through a cross-curricular STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) programme.

Mr Spithill said: “ILS Bermuda and RenaissanceRe contacted me about delivering a Keynote address during the ILS Bermuda Convergence, I agreed on the basis they make a donation to the Endeavour Community Sailing Programme.

“Having been through a similar programme when I was growing up it feels great to be able to give back to kids in the local Bermudian community.

“There is a lot of talent here, and I’m stoked that more kids will have a chance to participate.”

Greg Wojciechowski, chairman of the ILS Bermuda organising committee stated: “Part of the mission of ILS Bermuda is to encourage development of important skills in young people who aspire to be part of our island’s world-leading business in Insurance Linked Securities.

“The foundational skills that America’s Cup Endeavour teaches are critical to the next generation of Bermudian leaders.

“We thank Jimmy for sharing with our audience of senior business leaders what he has learnt about leadership through sailing, while at the same time supporting the next generation.”

RenaissanceRe stated: “The skills promoted by the America’s Cup Endeavour programme are important for Bermuda’s children and for the next generation of leaders in our industry.

“As a Bermuda company, we thank Jimmy and the America’s Cup team for the many contributions they are making to our Island. We are pleased to support ILS Bermuda and America’s Cup Endeavour by co-sponsoring Jimmy’s keynote speech.”