Victoria Dews, the owner of Sigma 33 Elandra based in Belfast Lough, possesses many of the characteristics associated with the name Elandra, such as a strong personality, energy, charisma, and focus. She is a great advocate of Women on Water, an initiative that aims to encourage more women to participate in sailing. Victoria has put together an all-female crew comprising a diverse mix of sailors to compete in this year's Northern Ireland Inshore Points Series and local club Ladies' races on board Elandra.
Victoria recognises the need for ongoing opportunities to retain and deepen women's involvement in sailing. She hopes that by providing a platform for women to develop their sailing skills in a supportive environment, she can inspire more women to pursue their passion for sailing.
"Victoria recognises the need for ongoing opportunities to retain and deepen women's involvement in sailing"
The crew ranges from those who recently discovered the sport through initiatives like WOW-WE to seasoned sailors with years of experience.
The Sigma 33 Elandra crew Photo: Wesley Crawford
Lee Stevenson, a seasoned sailor from the Bangor clubs, Royal Ulster, and Ballyholme, will drive the boat. Fiona Hicks, a well-known sailor from Royal Ulster and Strangford Lough YC, will skipper the boat. Jennifer Bryce, a GP14 dinghy sailor from Donaghadee SC and Newtownards SC, and Rebecca Nightingale, a seasoned foredeck sailor, will also be part of the crew. Christina Cunningham, an experienced dinghy sailor and past crew in the Clipper Round the World Race, will be in charge of the main and sail trim.
Sigma 33 Elandra Crew
Christina Cunningham
Sandra Halliwell
Rebecca Nightingale
Fiona Hicks on the helm of an RS Elite
Elandra's first race will be on Royal Ulster's Opening Day on 27th April. The crew also plans to participate in Ladies' Races, with at least a 60/40 ratio of female to male crew. Martin, Vicki's husband, will occasionally be aboard. Victoria is excited about the potential of this venture to promote gender diversity and inclusivity in sailing and is eager to see the impact it will have.
