In October I sailed from South Africa to Australia as crew on the Clipper Round the World (sailing) Race. We spent 28 days at sea and experienced the Southern Ocean with its big winds a huge seas.

Next I am sailing a second leg of the race from Qingdao to San Francisco, crossing the North Pacific in winter, which promises to be longer and colder. My boat is Qingdao - one of 10 identical ocean racing boats taking part. We start on the 4th of March and should be in California in early April.

I am raising money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF). As an added incentive your donation will be matched - doubling the money - so please be generous.

In 2009 at the age of 47 I had a heart attack which was a big surprise and shock. My heart was repaired with a stent and I am now fit and well. In 2010 I cycled from Lands End to John O'Groats and decided if I can do that I can do anything and so it’s the sailing a couple of oceans next. I would like to show that it is never too late to get fit and improve your lifestyle - you don’t have to do anything crazy but you can if you like! Almost anyone can take part in the Clipper race - there are no age limits and 40% have not sailed before.

As well as donating online you can use a CAF cheque (or a normal cheque) by sending to me made payable to the British Heart Foundation. Please email david@holloway.me.uk for the address if you need it.

You can follow our progress on the clipper web site - see the viewer which updates every 3 hours and the Qingdao crew diaries.