Freed British sailors will return for Maktoum Sailing Trophy

The five British sailors released from Iranian custody on Wednesday, have said that their ordeal has not put them off sailing, and they will be returning to sail in the Maktoum Sailing Trophy at Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) in February next year.

Luke Porter, 21, Oliver Smith, 31, Oliver Young, 21, Sam Usher, 26, and Bahrain-based David Bloomer, believed to be in his 60s, were held by Iran’s Revolutionary Guards for a week after allegedly straying into Iranian waters.

“Media attention had risen dramatically during the day and there was no solid information. But when we found out where they were we did our best to protect them inside DIMC which has the set up and support necessary,” said Saeed Harib, Managing Director, DIMC.

“When they arrived we allowed a short photo opportunity and then set up a security barricade to allow them to go to the spa to take a shower and relax a bit before a short press conference.”

Oliver Smith, the team captain from Southampton, explained to the media that the team had strayed in to Iranian waters as there was no wind and they had broken their propeller.

They were blindfolded a couple of times and locked in a room. They were however, treated well and allowed outside and had lots to eat. They even joked that they had gained weight. The sailors were given a chess set and some darts to play with and after the first couple of days the guards left the door of the room open so that they could get some fresh air.

The sailors stressed that the ordeal had not put them off sailing in the Gulf and they will be coming back to sail in the Maktoum Sailing Trophy at DIMC in February next year.
“Bahrain sail will carry on and grow, we are all committed to the project and developing sailing in the region,” Smith said.

The sailors were met by British Consul General Guy Warrington at the Dubai International Marine Club on Wednesday night.