The Clipper Round the World Race is set to take an exciting leap forward in its 2025-26 edition with Angela Brandsma and Amy Smith leading Team Power of Seattle Sports. This dynamic duo is not only breaking boundaries but also setting the stage for a groundbreaking shift towards gender representation in sports, as they prepare to claim their place on the start line in Portsmouth on August 31, 2025.
Both Angela and Amy are noteworthy as they represent one of the first fully female leadership teams to spearhead a race campaign from the onset of a Clipper Race circumnavigation. The upcoming race will feature two all-female pairs, with Skipper Heather Thomas and First Mate Millie Apperley rounding out this historic lineup.
Reflecting on her new role, Angela Brandsma, hailing from Sneek, the Netherlands, expressed her excitement for the partnership between Team Power of Seattle Sports and the Seattle Sports Commission. “I am super happy to have Seattle Sports Commission as a Team Partner! I have family connections in Seattle and have been there with the Clipper Race previously, so it’s a city I love,” she shared. This camaraderie exemplifies the shared passion for sports that binds the team and their partners.
The Seattle Sports Commission is committed to promoting participation in sports, particularly for women, which aligns harmoniously with the mission of the Clipper Race. As Brandsma highlights, she has journeyed through the ranks of the Clipper Ventures pathway, progressing from First Mate to Skipper. “I also feel strongly about accessibility of sport and women in the industry – alongside my First Mate Amy, I am looking forward to showing the world that women are strong, we are no different to men and we can do the same,” she emphasized, noting their goal of challenging gender norms within the competitive sailing landscape.
While the focus will certainly be on the race, Angela admits to having personal motivations tied to Seattle. “I am really looking forward to fish chowder, too! I’ve never had any better in the world!” It’s these small comforts that keep the spirit high as they tackle the monumental 40,000 nautical mile race.
Seattle will take center stage not only as the home of Team Power of Seattle Sports but also as a Host Port for the Clipper Race. The event’s arrival in Seattle in April 2026 will mark the fifth occurrence that the city, together with its long-standing partner, Seattle Sports Commission, welcomes the international fleet. Seattle has firmly established itself as a pivotal location, proudly flying the flag for the U.S., and the upcoming edition promises even more excitement as the city prepares to celebrate a decade of partnership with the Clipper Race.
Beth Knox, the CEO and President of Seattle Sports Commission, expressed her pride in the historic appointment of both Angela and Amy. “I am so proud to welcome the crew members to our Power of Seattle Sports team! We can’t wait to welcome them to the Emerald City and know they will represent us well,” she stated. Knox further highlighted the importance of the duo’s leadership in promoting the strength, resilience, and leadership of women in sports, stating, “Seattle is a city that champions women athletes, supports women’s sports, and uplifts women leaders — on land and at sea.”
Angela follows in the footsteps of Nikki Henderson, who notably led the Seattle entry in the 2017-18 edition of the Clipper Race and secured the second place overall. As Angela prepares to take the helm, she acknowledges the legacy of women like Henderson in inspiring future generations. “The pressure! We are going to do our best, especially racing into our home port. I hope we can make Seattle proud!” she vowed.
For Amy Smith, the First Mate, the 2025-26 Clipper Race marks an exciting first journey to America. She expressed her enthusiasm upon learning about their representation: “I’ve heard from past teams that the stopover in Seattle is epic. My first thought when I heard who we’d be representing was that we’d be having our homecoming after finishing our North Pacific crossing,” she said. The anticipation of sailing into Seattle will undoubtedly add significance to their already monumental journey.
April 2026 will not only showcase the arrival of the Clipper Race but will also coincide with an exciting time for Seattle with the city set to host six FIFA World Cup 26 fixtures in June and July. The synergy of these events highlights Seattle’s robust commitment to sports and community involvement.
With the countdown to Race Start underway, Angela and Amy are diligently preparing both on and off the water. They are completing five rounds of the final stage of their compulsory training program and fine-tuning their vessel for the adventure ahead. The determination in their approach truly mirrors the spirit of the Clipper Round the World Race, an event that continues to capture the imagination of sailors all over the globe.
For those looking to be part of this unique sailing experience, there’s still time to join the Clipper Race. The event encourages participation from individuals with no previous sailing experience, providing comprehensive training to ensure all crew members are ready and equipped for one of the world’s oldest and most exciting yacht races.
In conclusion, the Clipper Round the World Race 2025-26 not only presents an incredible opportunity for adventure and competition but also serves as a beacon of possibility for women in sports. With Team Power of Seattle Sports, led by the inspirational Angela Brandsma and Amy Smith, the event promises to inspire countless individuals around the world to navigate their own paths, whether on the water or beyond. As preparations unfold, the legacy of female leadership in sailing continues to grow, and we eagerly await the remarkable stories that will emerge from the race.
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