The Duchess of Cambridge becomes Patron of the 1851 Trust

The Duchess of Cambridge has become Royal Patron of The 1851 Trust.

The 1851 Trust is the charitable arm of the UK team's bid to bring the America's Cup back to Britain. It will work with young people under 25 years old, to inspire and engage a new generation through sailing and the marine industry.

The patronage reflects Her Royal Highness’s personal interests in sailing and in supporting children and young people to build their skills, confidence and aspirations. 

The Duchess of Cambridge said: "I am delighted to be Royal Patron of The 1851 Trust.  I feel very fortunate to have enjoyed sailing from a young age and I know it is a great way of providing young people with the opportunity to develop skills and confidence. 

"It is a hugely exciting time for sailing as the British challenger bids to bring the America's Cup back to Britain. I am looking forward to being part of this journey and I hope that through the 1851 Trust we can engage and inspire a new generation into sailing along the way."

Background on the organisation:

The 1851 Trust, supported by Ben Ainslie Racing, aims to inspire and engage a new generation through sailing and the marine industry, providing young people with the education, skills and training to become innovators of the future, and stewards of the marine environment. The Trust will work with young people under 25 years old, from diverse backgrounds. It will be supported by Ben Ainslie Racing, the team to bring the America’s Cup back to Britain a trophy that left these shores in 1851 and Britain has never won.