Team Pindar has confirmed its entry in the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race. Former ISAF World Sailor of the Year and TeamOrigin Team Director, Mike Sanderson will skipper the crew, as they embark on the 608-mile course.

Mike, who was instrumental in the design and build of the Juan Kouyoumdjian Pindar Open 60, will be joined by Nick Bice, Phil Harmer and navigator Simon Fisher along with five others, including owner of SuperMaxi Speedboat, Alex Jackson.

Mike has returned to Team Pindar on a temporary basis, to help facilitate the sale of the Open 60. He and his shore team have been working round the clock to return the boat to the water for Cowes Week, including its defence of the Artemis Challenge tomorrow, before the start of the Rolex Fastnet Race on Sunday.

Mike, who has competed in the Fastnet four times, commented: “Following Brian Thompson’s awesome fifth finish in the Vendee, it’s great to see the Pindar Open 60 back in the water. She’s in great shape and we’re looking forward to more testing during Cowes Week, before heading off on Sunday. The Fastnet is a classic race. There’s a strong line up, but we have a fast boat and a solid crew. With the right conditions, we hope to do well.”

The 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race starts from the Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes at 11.50 BST on Sunday 9 August.

To follow Team Pindar in the race,visit www.teampindar.com .