Endeavour is teaming up with SailGP Inspire for an online fundraiser presented by Sir Russell Coutts, the SailGP chief executive and Endeavour chairman emeritus, to raise funds for legacy opportunities that will positively impact Bermuda’s youth.

Funds raised through the virtual auction will support future pathways and initiatives for youth sailing in Bermuda with a focus on improving access for young people who may not otherwise have the opportunity.

Young Bermudians who have completed Endeavour’s programmes and are keen to sail at a local sailing club in Bermuda but may require financial support will be eligible for scholarships to continue their learning journey.

Funds raised will also support opportunities for Bermudian youth to gain skills and experience at other venues around the world during SailGP Season 2.

Young locals who have completed the Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme or Endeavour Assistant Instructor Programme may apply for internships with SailGP Inspire in other SailGP venues, along with other exciting career development initiatives.

The virtual auction is inviting individual and corporate donors to get involved in support. Items include exclusive experiences and premium items donated by Endeavour, SailGP, SailGP’s eight competing teams and SailGP official partners including the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

“We wanted to launch an online auction to help raise funds to further the opportunities for young people in Bermuda beyond the existing initiatives in the Inspire programme that we are already collaborating on with Endeavour,” Coutts said.

“With the funds raised, we will be able to create legacy opportunities for Bermuda’s youth to continue sailing and create career development opportunities with our global league throughout the season”

Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s Community Engagement, Development and Partnerships Manager, added: “We are thrilled to partner with SailGP Inspire in this unique way to support opportunities for Bermuda’s youth to continue to build their confidence and skills on and off the water.

“We deeply appreciate the support provided by SailGP and SailGP’s official partners for the Endeavour/SailGP Inspire fundraiser with amazing experiences on offer for the online auction ,including SailGP Bermuda Guest Chaser experience, SailGP VIP Hospitality Adrenaline Lounge Weekend Pass for the San Francisco Grand Final, and much more.”

Geovanni Hayward, Endeavour’s Programme Co-ordinator, spoke of the impact of the fundraiser to enable young participants fulfil their ambitions in sailing.

“More than 70 per cent of young people engaging in Endeavour’s programmes have indicated they would need a bursary to support their participation at local sailing clubs,” he said.

“The Endeavour/SailGP Inspire fundraiser will support opportunities for Bermudian youth to continue to develop their skills at local sailing clubs.

“We encourage everyone to get involved in this meaningful initiative and join us in support of Bermuda’s future generation of sailors, mariners and maritime professionals.

“Contributions of all sizes are appreciated, and donors can bid on items, donate and companies can elect to match funds donated by their employees.”

The online fundraiser, which started on Thursday runs until April 26.

Visit the online fundraiser and browse the selection of items at https://givergy.us/EndeavourxSailGPInspire/?controller=home