By Kirsty Topping
McGregor will aim to win the 10,000 top prize
HOLLYWOOD star Ewan McGregor is to go from Trainspotting to yacht racing.
The 40-year-old actor is to compete in a 10,000 charity sailing race.
The Star Wars actor will be part of the 60 boat race round the Isle of Wight during Cowes Week.
The winning boat in the Artemis Challenge will be given 10,000 to donate to their chosen charity, and McGregor hopes to help famine-ravaged African countries.
He will act as crew on a boat called Hugo Boss, skippered by Alex Thomson.
“I’m excited to experience the thrill of yacht racing from the very deck of the boat and I’ll be doing my best to win so that we can donate the prize money to UNICEF’s East Africa Appeal,’ said Ewan.
“There’s never been a more important time to support the children of the region who so desperately need our help. “
Also taking part in the 50 mile race around the island is the newly-married Zara Phillips
Who will crew on a boat skippered by Dee Caffari.
The Queen’s granddaughter will join TV presenter Natalie Pinkham and will be aiming to raise money for Toe In The Water, a charity that uses sailing to help injured service men and women being treated at Headley Court.
“It is great to be back on the helm of Artemis Ocean Racing to try to win 10,000 for Toe in the Water,’ said Dee Caffari.
“The Artemis Challenge is a great spectacle for theIMOCA60 yachts and with Zara and Natalie onboard I’m sure we will make a great team. “
The Artemis Challenge is held annually during Cowes week and is currently in its fifth year.
The race follows the classic America’s Cup route around the Isle of Wight.
