CHALLENGE Wales successfully completed one of the largest yacht races in the world.

The Penarth based tall ship beat other Challenge 72 boats on the Round the Island race which took place around the Isle of Wight on Saturday, June 27.

She beat some of her sisters ships in the 50 mile course where there were nearly 1600 boats competing and over 10,000 sailors of all experiences taking part.

The event was one of the adult fundraiser trips which raise money for the Challenge Wales charity which runs the tall ship and provides training for young people on board the vessel.

Anyone over the age of 18 had the chance to race with the funds raised going towards a bursary scheme which helps young people board the vessel for life skill training and employment opportunities.

Challenge Wales was skippered by Penarthian Andy Hall who said:

“The breezy conditions and comradery provided a great day on the water which everyone enjoyed. Similar to our youth work those onboard had to work as a team to sail us around the island, and for some it was their first time on board.

Taking on the Round the Island Race challenge is certainly a fun and different way to raise funds for charity.”

The search is already on for the 2016 racers and no previous experience is required.

The tall ship will travel to Belfast along with young Welsh people to take part in Tall ships event where people from all over the world come together.

She will then be be back in Penarth in mid-July.