Photographs of children will feature on the back of public buses from this week as part of an America’s Cup Bermuda public promotion.

The “America’s Cup is Our Cup” bus back promotion features eight America’s Cup Endeavour graduates who represent the hundreds of youngsters aged 10 to 12 who have graduated from the programme.

According to a press release, the promotion will soon include business people who are also working to enjoy the benefits of Bermuda hosting the America’s Cup.

The promotion highlights the children’s success with photos and interviews that can be read online at www.acbda.bm/ourac.

The eight students are Christopher Raymond, Ruth Mello Cann, Sven Curley, Chelsea Minors, Ocean Archeval, Zico Smith, Will “Russell” Rossiter and Shayna Patterson. Many had never sailed before joining AC Endeavour and recently Christopher Raymond was the proud winner of the Silver Fleet in the New Zealand O’Pen Bic National Championships.

Christopher Raymond, who now trains four times a week, stated: “Just six months ago, I had no idea how to sail and now I’m in New Zealand sailing O’Pen Bics,” he said. “That’s had a big impact on me. I am so grateful for the AC Endeavour Programme.”

The stories also feature parents’ comments on how their children have become more responsible, how their level or preparedness has transferred into other parts of their lives and how their love of sailing has taken them off the couch and into the wide blue ocean.

Christopher’s mother, Kim Raymond, had never considered sailing as an extracurricular activity for him, but she said that the AC Endeavour Programme has changed her opinion.

“I now see that sailing has many benefits and opportunities for our youth, both personally and academically. My son’s confidence and independence have really grown through this programme. It’s been an eye-opening experience for us all,” she said.

Chelsea Minor’s mother, Christie, admitted that the programme had opened her eyes to sailing. Her daughter is excelling and her son Shaun wants to join as soon as he can.

“To see these kids having the opportunity to have fun while still learning is great. Everyone thinks about dance, karate, tennis, but who thinks about sailing. It’s a good idea and it’s great for the kids.”

The student’s stories can be seen by visiting www.acbda.bm/ourac. The images and stories are part of a wider promotion online and will soon be featured as banners on The Royal Gazette building on Par-la-Ville Road.