I am self-funding my participation in the race while also donating to the Tall Ships Trust and asking others to donate as well. Part of the fund raising will cover the costs to allow for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to take part in the Fastnet Race as part of a youth crew on a separate ship, an extraordinary opportunity for those young sailors importantly, we are raising funds for the charity itself, which is transforming young people’s lives by giving them a challenging experience outside of their home community and teaching them foundational life skills  

I hope that you will make a donation to the Tall Ships Youth Trust. 

Jim Lloyd 

The Fastnet Race

The 695-nautical mile race will start in Cowes on the Isle of Wight, on Saturday 22 July 2023. We will then race to Southern Ireland and around the Fastnet Rock, before heading to the finish line in Cherbourg on the French northern coast. We know it’s going to be challenging, but we are doing it for a wonderful cause!

Fastnet Youth Crew

The TSYT youth boat will be crewed by 13 young people aged 16-25. They are being selected from a pool of nearly 40 young people who have previously sailed with TSYT and met the selection criteria. These young people wouldn’t otherwise have access to this type of opportunity and for those lucky enough to take part, it really is an incredible opportunity and once in a lifetime experience. The Fastnet race is the most adventurous voyaging that they are ever likely to do. And our team is proud to be funding their participation.

Tall Ships Youth Trust

Tall Ships Youth Trust is a national youth development outdoor learning charity, which has have been improving the skills and life chances of young people since 1956. The charity offers transformational voyages to over 1,000 young people every year, working with predominantly disadvantaged young people who haven’t had the same life chances as their peers due to learning, mental or physical disabilities, behavioural or emotional difficulties or because they are from low-income families.

TSYT's fleet of four 72ft Challenger yachts and a 55ft ketch offer young people a unique, physically and mentally challenging residential environment. Everyone sets off on a level playing field with no preconceived ideas regarding backgrounds or abilities. During a voyage, usually lasting at least 4 nights, they develop a range of skills, which can be transferred to their day-to-day lives to help them overcome any barriers and thrive. They equip young people with the skills and empowerment needed to realise their true potential. Their voyages enable young people to develop the life skills, social skills, confidence and self-esteem needed to raise their aspirations and make positive life choices.