Born in Windlesham, Surrey, Julie grew up in St Johns, Woking and attended Winston Churchill School, returning to Surrey University in later years as a mature student. She currently lives in Kew Gardens, Richmond and works on a consultancy basis throughout the UK and Europe.

Her sailing experience prior to joining the race could best be categorised as minimal - her experience of boats extended to cross-channel ferries and lazing on gin palaces with drink in hand.

Nonetheless, since joining the Clipper adventure ("the race was too much of a challenge for me not to take part") she has spent her time pouring over sailing books, learning to tie confusing knots, differentiating port from starboard and sailing around the Greek Ionian which is serious preparation in itself!

Her enthusiasm for the adventure ahead and the challenge it represents will ensure that by the time she sets off from Cuba she will be a dedicated & able member of the Jersey crew.

Julie's interests lie in Formula One motor racing, shopping, music, socialising and most of all travelling.

Having lived and worked abroad and circumnavigating the globe in more conventional manners she feels that the Clipper race is the ultimate combination of her love of travel, being out on the water and being part of a competitive team.

"Aside from the race I look forward to visiting Jersey in the coming months to visit my new friends from the island - as a 'non-Jersey' crewmember it is great to be part of the team."