Some of you will be aware that I have agreed to crew in the Fastnet Race this year, which one of the most prestigious ocean races together with the Sydney to Hobart race. This is an extremely arduous sailing race from Cowes in the Isle of Wight, round the Fastnet Rock of Southern Ireland (the most Southern point of the UK) and finishing in Plymouth. It starts on the 11 August 2013 and we race over 600 miles which is likely to take 5/6 days (the fastest boats will complete the course in about 2 days). In order to take part in the actual race I have to complete qualifying races and take an ocean sea survival course, all to ensure that our crew is able to cope with the gruelling conditions.

 

I hear you asking how can you support me? The simple truth is that I will need motivation to keep going during the race especially at night. We will be running a watch system which provides limited opportunities to sleep, whilst having to be available to change sails at a moment’s notice.

 

Thank you, in anticipation, for your support and I will keep you updated on my progress in the qualifying races in May and the actual race in August.