The Ericsson Racing Team today named one of the best offshore
helmsmen in the world as watch captain for their entry in the Volvo
Ocean Race 2005-06.

Tim Powell, 34, is no stranger to the Volvo Ocean Race, having
completed the race three times, most recently as watch captain on
Tyco during the 2001-02 event. Born and raised in the UK, and with a
strong background in dinghy sailing, Powell embarked on his first
Whitbread Round the World Race in 1993 on Dolphin and Youth. Four
years later, he returned on Silk Cut with fellow Ericsson team
members Neal McDonald and Steve Hayles, both also British. He has
been at the helm of many winning yachts, including a top-scoring
entry in the Admiral’s Cup, and has twice won the Tour de France à la
Voile, earning him a fierce reputation as one of the world’s most
experienced and competitive offshore helmsmen.

The Ericsson Racing Team earlier named Neal McDonald as skipper and
Steve Hayles as navigator, both British. New Zealander Richard Mason
has been appointed trimmer and helmsman.

McDonald said: “Tim Powell is one of the best offshore helmsmen in
the world and I am very pleased we have him with us. His experience
in the last three races will prove invaluable.”

Together with some of his crew members, McDonald will race the team’s
VO60, used for corporate hospitality, in the Swedish Around Gotland
Race starting on 3 July.