Last September I took the plunge to sign up to the once in a lifetime opportunity of participating in the 40,000 mile Clipper Round the World Race. The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, which is founded by Mr Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and offers every day people the opportunity to conquer a once in a lifetime achievement. Sir Robin wanted everyone to have the opportunity to experience the challenge and sheer exhilaration of ocean racing.

I decided to join the Clipper race when it was announced last year that Derry would be a host City combined with the excitement that there would be a Derry-Londonderry boat. It seemed like the perfect time to apply for the event. In addition it would be a dream of mine to represent the people of Derry in this race. I will join my father, John Harkin, who is completing the entire race in New York next year to partake in the final homecoming leg, which will stop in Derry next June/July 2012.

I have joined forces with local charity Children in Crossfire to co-ordinate a number of fundraising events. My first event is an intensive sponsored spin kindly hosted by Energie Gym in Derry, which will take place on Saturday 27th August from 12 noon. 50% of the proceedings will go towards my Clipper funds and the remaining 50% will go to Children in Crossfire.