A strong delegation from Bermuda attended a conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to help put together the finishing touches on plans for the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009.

Four hundred delegates and sail training vessel operators from 28 countries from all over the world were at last week's Sail Training International and American Sail Training Association conference.

Bermuda — which is a host port for the race — sent representatives from Bermuda Ports, Tall Ships Bermuda, Department of Tourism, Chamber of Commerce, Corporation of Hamilton, West End Development Corporation and Bermuda Sloop Foundation.

In an effort to get young people involved in the race, Bermuda students attending universities in the Halifax area were invited to a special brunch where they were given information on the Tall Ships race, and invited to become sail trainees and volunteers.

The Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge 2009 has been planned to help celebrate the 400th anniversary of permanent settlement on Bermuda.

It will be in Bermuda from June 11 to 15, with 4,000 young people from around the world expected to sail to Bermuda on Tall Ships.

Young people from Bermuda aged 15 to 30 who want to be sail trainees (no previous sailing experience required) and potential volunteers should visit www.tallshipsbermuda.com.