Clipper Race welcomes LKQ Leisure and Marine as an Official Supplier
From winches and wiring, to pumps and power management, it takes thousands of parts and systems to keep the fleet of Clipper 70 yachts ready to take on the world’s toughest oceans.
With the next edition kicking off in Portsmouth on 31 August 2025, LKQ Leisure and Marine is the newest addition to the global supply network helping to meet the complex demands of a high-performance fleet as it gets set to race its upcoming 40,000 nautical mile route.
LKQ Leisure and Marine brings together a portfolio of trusted marine brands, LKQ Aquafax (a trade-only distributor) and ASAP Supplies, which serves the retail market. Together, Aquafax and ASAP Supplies will not only supply high-quality products but also provide technical expertise and hands-on support to help keep the fleet performing at its best.
The partnership is a natural fit. In the lead-up to each race edition, the Clipper Race fleet undergoes a complete refit that requires a steady supply of specialised components. Once racing begins, the Maintenance Team must remain agile in responding to the evolving needs of each yacht and coordinating deliveries of parts to global stopover destinations. The speed, reliability, and availability of LKQ Leisure and Marine’s product range helps the team ensure all vessels remain in peak condition throughout the eleven months of racing.
Greg North, Head of Fleet Maintenance at Clipper Ventures, said:
“For over 20 years, we’ve enjoyed a strong relationship with LKQ Leisure and Marine who have supplied us with a wide range of marine equipment for our vessels across many circumnavigations.
“Not only have we benefited from reliable supply times, but the technical support we’ve received has been key in ensuring our fleet is ready to sail to schedule. For the Maintenance Team, having confidence in the timely supply of components is essential and we’re pleased to welcome LKQ Leisure and Marine on board as an Official Supplier.”
Ashley Merriman, Head of Channel (Marine) at LKQ Leisure and Marine, added:
“We’re proud to partner with the Clipper Race, a globally recognised event that reflects the same spirit of endurance, innovation, and teamwork that drives us at LKQ Leisure and Marine. This collaboration allows us to connect with the sailing community in a truly authentic way, while showcasing products built to perform in real-world conditions. We look forward to creating impactful stories together through this exciting partnership.”
The partnership also supports LKQ UK and Ireland’s broader commitment to sustainability. With company initiatives including reducing & recycling packaging, as well as working with responsible suppliers, sustainability is embedded in LKQ Leisure and Marine’s strategy. The Clipper Race offers a powerful platform to share and expand that story across the globe.
About LKQ Leisure and Marine
LKQ Leisure and Marine is part of LKQ UK and Ireland, bringing together trusted marine brands including LKQ Aquafax (trade-only) and ASAP Supplies (retail). They supply a comprehensive range of high-performance marine parts, systems, and accessories to professionals and leisure customers across the UK and Europe.
From essential systems like power, plumbing, and electrical, to specialised components including navigation electronics and safety equipment, LKQ Leisure and Marine supports every stage of vessel maintenance, repair, and refit. Whether preparing for ocean racing or everyday cruising, LKQ Leisure and Marine provides the parts and expertise to help keep vessels operating safely, efficiently, and sustainably.
Through this partnership, LKQ Leisure and Marine is proud to support the Clipper Race crews on every leg of their global journey.
About the Clipper Race
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race was founded by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston in 1995 and is the only race of its kind where people from all walks of life can train to become ocean racers. After completing four stages of intensive training, participants join one or multiple race legs or the full 40,000 nautical mile circumnavigation.
The fleet of Clipper 70 yachts makes six ocean crossings during its route, including the North Pacific – making the Clipper Race the only global yacht race to cross this ocean. The race visits 14 ports around the world, with confirmed destinations on the 2025-26 route including Portsmouth (UK), Cape Town (South Africa), Qingdao (China), Tongyeong City (South Korea), Seattle (USA), and Oban (Scotland).
Applications remain open for the Clipper 2025-26 Race. To find out more, visit clipperroundtheworld.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Nikita Rabbette - Marine Marketing Manager
LKQ Leisure and Marine
nikita.rabbette@arleighgroup.co.uk
