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Fashion designer to sponsor solo sailor

Van Liew came third in the 1998-1999 Around Alone race

NEW YORK -- Fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger will sponsor American Brad Van Liew's entry in the Around Alone yacht race, the longest race for any individual in any sport.

The 28,000-mile, 9-month single-handed sailing race begins in New York on September 15, 2002, and circumnavigates the world by way of the five great capes.

Sailing alone aboard the newly named and completely retro-fitted 50-foot Tommy Hilfiger Freedom America yacht, Van Liew will face extreme conditions to battle a diverse international fleet of the world's best solo sailors in one of the most mentally and physically demanding competitive sports in the world.

"Brad is the United States' premier solo sailor and we are very proud and extremely excited about this opportunity to support him," said Hilfiger.

"It takes hard work, resourcefulness, perseverance and courage to succeed. Brad and the Tommy Hilfiger Freedom America team personify these qualities and are an embodiment of the American dream."

Van Liew, 34, was the only American to finish the 1998-99 Around Alone, taking 3rd place in the 50-foot class.

The race is held every four years and this event will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a new start in New York harbour.

Recognising the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the race will begin in New York between Ground Zero and the Statue of Liberty as part of a commemorative tribute to all those who lost their lives.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, chairman of race organisers Clipper Ventures, and the first person to win a solo round-the-world yacht race, was thrilled.

"We at Around Alone share Brad's delight at this excellent news. Sponsorship has not been easy to obtain during this past year and it is good to see an internationally renowned brand such as Tommy Hilfiger getting behind an experienced sailor in this world class event."

Around Alone 2002-03 starts from New York (USA) on September 15, and takes the fleet to Torbay (England), Cape Town (South Africa), Tauranga (New Zealand) and Salvador da Bahia (Brazil), before returning to Newport in April 2003.

The official entry list stands at 18 skippers from 11 different countries, with 7 in Class I, 10 in Class II, and 1 in the Venturer Class.