David Aitken MSc (Brunel). CEng. MRINA. MIMechE. MICE.

The Naval Architect who designed the 2004 Blue Riband Atlantic Challenger in 2001. Unfortunately American sponsorship was withdrawn at this sensitive political time and the concept remained on the drawing board.

David has since produced a revised concept and preliminary design for the 80metre twin gas turbine powered Atlantic Challenger for the next Blue Riband Challenge. He has completely re-designed the original craft and added patentable high-technology, features which will have wide post-event appeal, both to the military and commercial sectors alike.

The engineering project management function for the Maricuda Atlantic Challenge is provided by David to ensure that the finished craft is produced to the required specification, on time and within budget.

Martin Spooner

Co-Skipper

A keen sailor for over forty years, Martin recognises the value of achieving high standards of safety at sea and the huge merits of bringing innovative concepts to life.

Martin’s nautical expertise will be fully utilised on this project, particularly at the start and finish of the challenge where harbour incidents are most likely to occur.

Martin is responsible for the close co-ordination of the commercial aspects of the project and ensuring that all sponsors, manufacturers, specialist suppliers and the media receive excellent communications.

Mark Lello LL.B, BMLA, BMF

Skipper

Mark is a qualified Yachtmaster with Commercial Endorsement. A grandson of the Chief Electronics Designer of Concorde he is also a veteran of the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge of 1984. He is Managing Partner of Parker Bullen LLP, a law firm that is committed to the marine industry, including advising designers and owners of yachts, super-yachts and other maritime craft.

Peter Knightbridge

Documentation Control Engineer / Onshore Communications Operator

Works Manager in Portsmouth Naval Dock Yard; Company Manager, Babcock; Contract Manager (MoD Contracts);  QC & all documentation, personnel training, design consultant to MoD to verify fit for purpose systems required; Contracts Manager (MoD Contracts), Management in charge of multi-task teams of new MoD navy ship build with BAe Systems, Portsmouth. Peter will compile and file all relevant documents for the craft.

Charlie Charles

Gas Turbine Engineer

Royal Navy Chief Engineer on the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious, working with Rolls-Royce; Worked with NATO as a generator and air-conditioning engineer, Rolls-Royce Ex Olympus engines (as used on Concorde); BAe Systems QC Engineer, Portsmouth

Toni Ferraro

Sonar and FLIR Engineer

RAF Trained Aircraft Electrical/Avionics QA Engineer, QINETIQ Boscombe Down has worked on Airbus and Helicopters,  BAe Systems QC Engineer

Adrian (AJ) Filer

Radar and Comms Engineer

Ex RAF Avionics Engineer has worked for BAe Systems, Raytheon and Lockheed Martin; PADI Diving Instructor and Medic First Aid

Richard Slee
Director of Lookout Media, a video production company using professionals from BBC and ITV to record each significant stage of the Maricuda Atlantic Challenge project.