Monty plans to make waves

Monty is full of admiration for Emma Richards' achievements

Top golfer Colin Montgomerie plans to join fellow Scot Emma Richards' crew for next year's Volvo Ocean Race.

Monty has been announced as part of record-breaking round-the-world yachtswoman Richards' team for the 30,000 nautical mile race.

The former European number one will join Richards and America's Cup star Mike Sanderson for one leg of the competition depending on his schedule.

"I feel privileged to be invited to become a member of the team," he said.

Richards entered the record books last year when she helmed the 60-foot racing yacht Pindar into fourth place in the Around Alone solo race. She was the first woman and the youngest-ever contestant to finish the eight-month race.

"I am fiercely supportive of all Scottish sportspeople. I greatly admired Emma's inspirational solo circumnavigation last year," added Montgomerie.

"I have said once before that I would love to take on a new challenge in my life such as competing in a major yacht race like the Volvo Ocean Race, but I never thought I would either have the time or the opportunity.

"I'm sure it's going to be one of the biggest challenges of my life, but also one that I will greatly enjoy.

"Depending on my schedule, I am aiming to sail on one of the legs of the race and possibly some of the in-port races, but before then I will be playing my part by helping Emma and Mike to secure the necessary sponsorship.

"Emma's participation in the Volvo Ocean Race would be great for British sport and is also a great marketing opportunity for the right sort of company."

The nine-month race begins on 23 November at Vigo in northern Spain and comprises nine tough off-shore legs and seven inshore races in stopover ports.