Peter Burling: 'I've got a lot to learn' in Volvo Ocean Race

Peter Burling with the America's Cup. Photo / Photosport

Kiwi sailor Peter Burling will have plenty to soak in as he continues his sailing career.

Burling has signed with Team Brunel for the upcoming Volvo Ocean Race, and says he has a lot to learn in what is a relatively unfamiliar format for him.

"I definitely feel like I've got a lot to learn," Burling told Radio Sport.

"It's something I've always really wanted to take part in. I've done a lot of driving but these races are incredibly demanding."

Team Brunel, skippered by ocean racing veteran Bouwe Bekking, is a well-established team and considered one of the frontrunners for the 2017-18 edition.

Burling says the experience of Bekking and others was a key reason why he joined up with Team Brunel.

"I'm really happy with the decision I've made to go with this team, and I'm really excited of our chance to do really well in this yacht race.

"They've spent a lot of hours offshore - it's a great opportunity to learn from guys who have been there before, at a really high level."

Burling is in the hunt to become the first sailor in history to pull off the triple crown by becoming and Olympic, America's Cup and Volvo Ocean Race champion. However, he says that is not the main motivating factor.

"That's not really why I've done it - I've done it to try and gain a lot of experience with a really good team and just to try be able to say that I'm a good offshore racer. I don't think I can say that right now but hopefully I'll be able to in a few months time."