Tenby Sailing Club News

A stiff breeze that eased somewhat as the races wore on, together with choppy seas under a leaden sky, greeted the three intrepid crews that set forth on Sunday morning. Race officer Paul Evenden and rib driver Ieuan James set a triangular course with near perfect reaching angles (according to the RO!) for the two races run back to back. In the first race, the RS200 of Dan Jackson and Connor Keohane was first over the line and soon built a lead on the Osprey of Jaime Bohata; meanwhile Danny, in his Streaker, took a conservative starting approach, mooring up to the start mark for a few moments whilst he gauged the best route up the beat for his attack on the lead. The reaching angles meant that Dan and Connor in the asymetric boat, spinnaker up, soon built a commanding lead on the Osprey that chose not to fly their spinnaker. Danny was plugging away until a collision with a partially submerged floating object tore his rudder from its mountings and put paid to his chances. He was towed in by the safety rib with a little difficulty, due to some of his boat’s buoyancy tanks filling with water, through the holes left by the damaged rudder mountings. Whilst the towing operation went on and the sun came out, a second race was underway, once again won by Dan and Connor after a capsize caused by a tangled main sheet bridle put paid to Jaime’s chances. Winter Series Racing will continue until Boxing Day, weather permitting, with two races on Sunday mornings. Any dinghy sailors out there looking for some racing are welcome to attend. Membership taken out now will include all of next year, too, so the winter racing will effectively be free. Blues Night Saturday night’s Tenby Blues weekend performance of the five-piece band ‘Cottonmouth’ at the club was, once again, a roaring success, with the club crammed to capacity. Many thanks to the organisers, all who attended and especially Mr. Terry Evans and Mr. John Akrill for stepping into the breach and running the bar at the last minute, after Mike Stace was taken ill. Mike is now recovering and assures us he will back on the water and winning races again very soon. Forthcoming events Tonight (Friday) - Annual Prize-Giving Dinner at the Giltar Hotel, The Esplanade, Tenby, at 7 for 7.45 pm. Dinner, prize-giving and raffle, followed by a disco and bar until late. £26 per person. Dress code, black tie, lounge suit or Mess dress. Members have been emailed with full details. Tomorrow (Saturday) - Autumn International Rugby, Wales v New Zealand, kick-off 5.30 pm. Bar open from 5 pm. After that, moving seamlessly on to the club AGM beginning once the rugby is over. There are some vacancies on the committee and volunteers are sought to help in the running of the club. If any member out there would like to get involved please get in touch with any current committee member, and/or come to the AGM and speak up! Also, our membership secretary, Julia Dashfield, is relinquishing her post after many years service. Thanks Julia for all your work. That means we are looking for a replacement; get your application in quick! Junior Christmas Party - date to be confirmed. All juniors parents and helpers welcome. Club Christmas Party - December 20. Full details to follow. February 21 - Sailwave demonstration. One for the diary; there will be a demonstration of the Sailwave racing results software at the club on February 21; all welcome. Opening Hours The club is now open Friday and Saturday evening and Sunday lunchtime. Website The club’s website can be found at www.tenbysailingclub.org.uk and includes a Facebook link and details of activities and sponsors. New members welcome; sailors, aspirant sailors and non sailors. We are a members club run by volunteers who try to involve all members in a variety of activities, both sailing and social. To enquire about joining call at the clubhouse, contact any member who will be pleased to help, or contact us on-line.

Glenridding Sailing Centre launches new website

GLENRIDDING Sailing Centre has launched a new website with the aim of keeping in touch with boat owners and sailing students. The 35-page website now has greater emphasis on social media and includes a ‘Launchers Area’ for the 150 plus people who keep their boat at the Centre during the sailing season. The centre said this will create “a friendly online community for folks to keep in touch during the winter.”

Aspiring young sailors awarded own boats and boards

For the second year running, aspiring young sailors have been awarded their very own boats and windsurfers, donated by the John Merricks Sailing Trust (JMST), the official charity partner of the RYA OnBoard programme. The 13 youngsters were selected from over 70 applications after competing in the RYA Zone and Home Country Championships which took place at nine venues across the UK this September. 'This is the second year we’ve teamed up with the JMST to run this scheme which is aimed at helping ambitious young sailors to progress in the sport. These youngsters have all shown huge enthusiasm, talent and commitment to the sport despite some of them being fairly new to sailing. This year we will award six Toppers, three Optimists, three Bic Technos and one Laser' said RYA OnBoard Operations Officer, Cat Ferguson. The boats and boards that the JMST have donated will provide these sailors, who may not have ordinarily had the opportunity, to progress their skills with the highest quality equipment to continue to participate in sailing. Ten year old William who sails at North Lincs and Humberside Sailing Club was delighted when he found out he was being gifted the use of his own BIC Techno. 'I really love windsurfing but always have to borrow my club’s kit, often having to search for my own board and sail. I love being outdoors meeting new friends and improving my skills in windsurfing every time I go.' Finlay (11) was awarded his very own Topper with the scheme last year. He said: 'This opportunity has allowed me to learn and compete with the kind of equipment we couldn’t otherwise afford. My mum and dad have made friends with other parents on the traveller circuit and weekends have been a fun and busy time for all of us'. The JMST will donate more than 50 single-handed junior pathway boats and boards to promising sailors over five years. Each year at least one young sailor will be selected from each of the nine RYA Zones and Home Countries, to receive two years of exclusive use of the boat or board which has been donated by the Trust. After which the boats or boards will be donated to the sailor’s original club or training centre to benefit club training programmes and enable other young sailors to benefit in the future and progress into club, regional and national racing activities. Cat concludes: 'We’d like to thank Bishop Skinner who once again are supporting the partnership as the official RYA OnBoard JMST marine insurer. Thanks also go to Topper, Laser, Boardwise and IBI Sailing for helping us to make this possible.' Run by the RYA, OnBoard is a grass roots programme which introduces sailing and windsurfing to young people aged eight to 18, through schools, youth groups and training centres. Over a ten year period OnBoard has introduced over 500,000 children to sailing and windsurfing in the UK, converting over 10% of them into regular participants. JMST seeks to help young sailors and youth sailing organisations to achieve their goals and was set up in the memory of leading Olympic sailor and 1996 Olympic silver medallist John Merricks. Ian Walker, John’s former sailing partner, JMST Trustee, double Olympic silver medallist and skipper of Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, commented, 'John Merricks did not come from a sailing family and learnt to sail at school. He was a fantastic sailor, but was as well known for his sense of fun as he was for his natural talent. Many people helped John on his way to achieving his Olympic Silver medal and the Trust set up in his name aims to support youth sailing at a grass roots level, hoping to encourage young sailors like these to follow in his footsteps.' Youngsters who have been selected for RYA OnBoard JMST awards are: • Manon Ellis, County Antrim Yacht Club, Co. Antrim • Abigail Cowley, Kielder Water Sailing Club, Northumberland • Philip Heywood, Coquet Shorebased Trust Windsurfing Club, Northumberland • William Russell, North Lincs and Humberside Sailing Club, North Lincolnshire • Molly Maciver, Clyde Windsurfing Club, Renfrewshire • Alistair Coombs, Loch Venacher Sailing Club, Perthshire • Dan Batty, Oxford and District Schools Sailing Association, Oxfordshire • James Smaggasgale, Hillingdon Outdoor Activities Centre, Middlesex • Kieran Andrews, St Mawes Sailing Club, Cornwall • Miles Ripley, Paignton sailing Club, Devon • Amelia Grant-Jones, Fishguard Bay Yacht Club, Pembrokeshire • Joshua Price, Solva Sailing Club, Dyfed • David Peaty, Worcestershire Schools Sailing and Canoe Association, Worcestershire

Rupert Holmes comments on Youth Initiatives at Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week

Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week may be one of the world’s oldest regattas, but tradition does not hold back a large number of entries from some of the UK’s best young sailors. In 2014 these numbered more than 20 boats with their entire crews aged under 25, across a wide swath of both the dayboat classes in White Group and the bigger Black Group yachts. There were also further entries where the skipper was below 25, although other crew members may have been older. Both title sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management and regatta organiser Cowes Week Limited are firmly behind supporting the youth element of the event and promoting it hard. “Quite simply, youth sailing is the future of the sport,” says Cowes Week Limited sales and marketing director Michelle Warner. “We’re right behind it, as are the yacht clubs, the classes and our official charity, Cowes-based UKSA, which is one of the UK’s foremost providers of sailing experiences to young people.” Richard Thornton, Chief Executive of UKSA, added: “At UKSA we use the power of the sea to make a change. From our main site in Cowes we have a wide reach, with over 9,000 young people a year benefiting from what we do, whether that’s encouraging an eight-year-old to get onto the water for the first time, to training the captain of a 3000gt superyacht, and everything in between.” “We used the money raised during this year’s Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week to give every Year 6 Island child a chance to try sailing with us, for free. We’re proud that we lead so many young people into sailing, help them develop their skills and ultimately become the world’s future yachtsmen and women.” Racing for young people Collectively, Cowes Week, title sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management, UKSA and the clubs and classes involved with the event are doing everything they can to provide pathways for young people to progress from dinghy sailing, which is very well supported by the Royal Yachting Association, with local, regional and national coaching to a high standard. However, only a very small number of the sailors in these programmes will join the Olympic Squad, leaving other talented sailors to seek alternative pathways within the sport. Of course, historically for many people Cowes Week has been about sailing with younger members of their family, but enabling young people to move to sailing independently in a boat of their own is an important next step. For the last 3 years Aberdeen Asset Management has supported youth sailing by introducing the Under 25 initiative and hotly contested Under 25 Trophy. By fully funding the entry fee and providing kit for an agreed number of crews, they helped to increase the numbers taking part by almost 10 per cent each year. More recently, even local businesses have become involved in initiatives to support young sailors. For instance, this year East Cowes Marina offered the young crews taking part in Aberdeen’s Under 25 initiative a 50 per cent reduction in berthing costs during Cowes Week. Organisers are looking at other ways in which they can make the event more cost-effective for youth sailors who are at a time in their lives when funds aren’t so readily available. Individual classes and local clubs are also doing much to promote sailing among used generations. The Etchells fleet, in which three of the 15 Cowes Week entries in 2014 were crewed by young sailors, goes further than many classes in this respect. Since 2012 they have made two fully funded boats available for youth teams each season. In addition, with support from the RYA, the class has worked with a total of 90 young sailors, including some of the UK’s most promising used talent, over the past three years. Much of this has been made possible by generous funding by the Class Admiral, Edward S Fort OBE. “What we offer tends to follow on from when young people leave home, often to become a student,” says David Franks, captain of the Cowes fleet. “At this stage their parents are less likely to be supporting them in dinghy racing, but at the same time they don’t have spare money of their own to spend on sailing.” The scheme also brings benefits to the class that are not always obvious from the outside. “We have also solved two common problems through populating many of the other boats in the fleet with young sailors as crew,” Franks adds. “Firstly young people who are hungry for success and want to take part in a full programme of racing are looking for boats to sail on. At the same time, owners who want to sail at a high level often find the friends they might invite to race are either not at that level, or are not sufficiently committed. “What’s great with the youth sailors is that they are talented, are prepared to commit to a season’s programme, and will help to look after the boat as well. It solves all the crew problems that owners often have. As well as all being very good sailors, they are also people who, if they were your daughter or son, you would be really proud of them.” While the class has a more extensive offering for youth sailors than many, the Etchells is by no means the only class to offer strong support for young sailors. There are many other classes and yacht clubs that have established pathways into keelboat and yacht racing for their younger members. The Squib class for instance, had eight sailors under 25 sailing in its 31-strong fleet in Cowes Week 2014. The Royal Victoria Yacht Club, home of the Isle of Wight’s Squib fleet for example, has club-owned boats that have been available to young sailors with crews selected to sail during Cowes Week. Similarly the Royal Yacht Squadron and Royal Thames Yacht Club’s fleet of modified J/80s that are a regular sight in the Solent during the summer and Queen Mary SC during the winter, have been a valuable resource for younger members’ racing. In Sussex the Shoreham Youth Team was started to encourage young teenagers to work as a team on a racing keelboat. Since 2008 it has operated as a rolling 18-month project, with the outgoing teams taking on the winter training for the next budding keelboat sailors. The aim is to compete successfully in Cowes Week, where the team’s boat is a regular podium finisher in both the Sonar Class and for the Under 25 trophy. Increasingly sailing has to compete with other activities for people’s valuable and limited spare time. Enthusiastic and skilled young ambassadors for the sport is an important means to spread the word and foster greater participation among a used generation of sailors. Aberdeen Asset Management’s Under 25 initiative, together with the work of the UKSA and the yacht clubs and class associations, is therefore helping to provide the sailors of the future for both Cowes Week and other events. Entries for the 2015 regatta, 8 – 15 August, are now open via the event website.

Forgotten feat of courageous Scottish sea captain

THE forgotten heroics of a Scottish sea captain who risked his life to save 185 people from a stricken American troop ship have been retold in a new book. Robert Crighton from Port Glasgow came to the rescue of the SS San Francisco off Nova Scotia in 1853 after it was ravaged by a massive storm, then struck by cholera. He became an instant hero in the United States and was awarded the country’s highest honour, but was greeted with indifference on his return to Scotland. The drama included Crighton’s crew sending the morale-boosting message to the stricken ship: “Be of good cheer, we will not desert you.” The lines were later included in a poem about the rescue by Walt Whitman. Amateur genealogist Clare Abbott took five years to piece together Crighton’s exploits after one of his descendants told her what little he knew of the story. She hopes that Faithful of Days – The Story of Robert Crighton, Master Mariner – will lead to him finally winning recognition in his Inverclyde birthplace. Currently, there is no trace of him ever having lived there. Ms Abbott, a retired medical information researcher, who lives in Oxfordshire, said: “I just love uncovering stories. I could hardly believe that when Crighton returned to Scotland, no-one took any interest. “A blue plaque in his home town would be fitting, since King Street, where he was born, still exists.” Alan Boyd, Crighton’s great-great grandson, who told Ms Abbott about him when they met on a course, said: “I’m absolutely delighted by the book.” The Bath-based retired engineer said: “My great uncle wrote something about him in the 1960s, but the sad thing is he seems to have been lost in the mists of time. “My grandmother was his last surviving relative in Scotland.” In a preface to the book, Mr Boyd wrote: “I am immensely proud to be his descendant and grateful that such a skilled researcher has chosen to apply her talents to leading him out into the sunshine again.” Crighton was master of the New York-bound clipper Three Bells when he came to the aid of the SS San Francisco during a ten-day storm. The heavily overloaded vessel, which was taking a US army regiment from New York to California via Cape Horn to keep order during the gold rush, ran into a massive storm. A huge wave swept away some 140 of those on board along with all the lifeboats and spare sails. Another ship rescued around 100 more before the storm forced the two vessels apart. Despite being badly damaged itself by the storm, Crighton kept the Three Bells alongside for four days, waiting for the weather to improve. He was forced to jettison most of the Three Bells’ cargo and food, while the ship had also lost most of its sails. Crighton was finally able to save all the remaining survivors after another ship arrived to assist. Ms Abbott wrote: “The essence of Robert’s heroism was not only that he stayed beside the San Francisco for four days when he might have been sailing towards safety, but that he did so even though the chances of success were not very high.” After landing the survivors in New York to a hero’s welcome, he was presented with the freedom of the city. More than 12 years later, he was awarded the Congressional Medal, the US’s most distinguished civil award and one of only a few presented to foreigners. It was engraved: “Testimonial of national gratitude for his gallant conduct. Capt Robert Crighton, ship Three Bells.” Crighton was also awarded $7,500 but is not clear whether the ship’s owners took the money.

British entry confirmed for 2015/16 Clipper race

GREAT Britain, the British government's international marketing and promotional enterprise, will compete in the next edition of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, after a successful debut this year. As with the 2013/14 event, GREAT Britain will offer partnership opportunities, available for UK£250,000 each, to six British companies, with the opportunity set to be officially launched in January. The GREAT Britain boat will compete in the next edition of the Clipper race, which is scheduled to begin in August next year. The 2013/14 race began and finished in London and took in stops in Brazil, South Africa, Australia, China and the USA. The event allows ordinary members of the public to train and compete in the event. “We’re delighted that ‘GREAT Britain’ will once again compete in this iconic sporting event,” said Conrad Bird, director of the GREAT Britain campaign. “We will build on the success of our 2013/14 involvement to develop an innovative trade and tourism partnership with Clipper Ventures that delivers jobs and growth for Britain." Bird added: “The GREAT Britain campaign is a unique platform from which to promote British technology, innovation, manufacturing, creativity, adventure and hospitality in key markets around the world. “I’d encourage British companies to seize the opportunity to get involved and join this GREAT partnership.” Clipper figures indicate that the GREAT Britain entry in the 2013/14 race generated a PR value in excess of UK£75 million during the 40,000-mile event.

Learning new skills is just plain sailing for youngsters

SCHOOL sports such as football, rugby, netball and athletics have always been popular with pupils – but students at St James' School in Grimsby have now added sailing to the list. Groups from the Bargate school have been travelling to Covenham Reservoir, near Louth, for extra curricular fun on the water, thanks to the vision of teacher Mike Casey. Advertisement The boys' housemaster, who has a rich sailing background himself, arranged for pupils to take part in the activity having established links with the Covenham Sailing Club. Mr Casey said: "It's become more and more popular. We have around 35 different children sailing at some point during the week. "I contacted the club and said that I had some kids and wanted to take them sailing. "Some of the pupils were a bit nervous when they started but as the weeks go by they have been getting better and better. "A lot of the pupils are doing really well and it would be my hope that some of them go on to represent the county team, then zone squads, before trying out for the national setup." As well as developing their core strength, the students get a real sense of community by sailing, with many sailing clubs throughout the country being very warm and friendly – according to Mr Casey. When the Grimsby Telegraph paid the young sailors a visit, they were sailing in pairs and many will be preparing for a two-day national sailing regatta, which St James is planning to host next year. There will be a champion field and a regatta field available to competitors. Letters have gone out to over 300 schools and enquiries have already come back from as far away as Northampton and Essex. Headmaster John Price said: "It's fantastic to be hosting a national schools event and another great opportunity for the pupils at St James to develop their confidence. "That's what we want to do, discover talent and give these kids the best chance in life." Sally Mossop, from Marshchapel, is mother to Matilda and she thinks the fact students are able to take up sailing is a "fab opportunity". She said: "All the pupils get on so well, so it's great that they can all sail with their friends. "They've been out on the water – even in high winds. It's brilliant. It's a great challenge for them and they need to work together and, as far I can tell, they've really enjoyed it. "We've done a bit of sailing as a family on holiday but nothing as demanding as this, so we're really grateful that they all have this chance." Daughter Matilda, 10, loves coursing through the water at speed. She said: "I find it really weird because you never know where the wind will be going but it is a lot of fun and I like to go fast." Orianne Dubedat, 10, has also been getting to grips with life on the reservoir. "I'm really enjoying it," she said. "It's great when you go quite fast but when you actually capsize, that's fun as well. "When the sail falls off it can be a bit scary but, as long as you stay calm, you'll be fine." Capping, as capsizing is referred to as, can also be a bit "scary" according to Millie Jennings. The 10-year-old said: "Most weeks the water is fine and sailing is a lot of fun. "I have sailed now with different friends each week and it's important that you work as a team. "I have enjoyed it so much that I would do sailing outside of school." Andrew Morgan, 10, is a thrill-seeker who likes going at high speeds. He said: "Going fast is probably the best bit. If you do cap the sailing boat then sorting yourself out can be a bit tricky, but we've had lots of briefings so we know what to do." Harvey Harris, 10, said he liked surprising his partner with how rapidly he can gather pace but that it was "fun working with other people". He said: "I like it a lot more than football and I currently swim five times a week. Sailing is probably my new favourite." Euan Lynch, 11, has been joined on the water by his father Paul who is a school governor. Euan said: "I find it really fun and I feel I have progressed a lot. I'm a lot more confident than I was so hopefully I can keep improving." Dad Paul said: "Prior to this sequence of lessons, I had only been sailing once. "I came to have a look at the reservoir with Mike and he asked me to help – that was it really. "It's a really good environment for them to learn in and already it seems really popular at the school. "It builds confidence and gets them working as a team. If you do not do things together you'll end up in the water. "It's great for their self-discipline as they have to listen to all the necessary guidance."

Boost in family sailing at Seasalter after £50k grant

The club, based in Faversham Road, built a new boat access ramp over the seawall after its members received a £50,000 grant from the Sports England's Inspired Facilities fund in 2012. Since the unveiling of the access ramp in September last year, Seasalter Sailing Club has seen an increase in new memberships and in the number of families taking part in sailing. Club Vice Commodore, Ian Mills, said: “The original ramp had been in place for 60 years, it was unsightly and unattractive with only the most committed sailors prepared to lug their boats to and from the water every weekend, which was nigh-on impossible to do alone for many of the boats. “Now it is quick and easy to launch a boat, meaning people are much more prepared to do it more regularly. The hassle and physical exertion has been dramatically reduced. “The new ramp also means the beach around the club is being used more by families as members of the public are able to use it for pushchair and wheelchair access to the beach.” The sailing club now plans to build on this success by providing more varied low cost opportunities for local people to get into sailing at Seasalter throughout 2015. It is also looking to invest in two new boats, one of which will be a dinghy that is suitable for families as well as beginner and intermediate sailors. Sam Rowe, the Royal Yachting Association’s Sailing Development Officer for Kent, said: “It makes great headlines when a club gets a big funding award, but this is why these awards do make such a difference to local communities. “We may be closer now to Rio 2016 than London 2012 but projects like this are the enduring legacy of those home Games.”

Sailing - Full speed ahead for Patience and Willis on Road to Rio 2016

Patience won silver alongside Stuart Bithell in the 470 men's class at London 2012 but admits he is determined to go one better next time out. But it has been a disjointed few years since London for the 28-year-old after Bithell moved to the 49er class before new partner Joe Glanfield retired. Patience is now six months into his new partnership with Elliot Willis and gold at the 470 European Championships this summer suggests they are right on course. However, the pair failed to medal at the World Sailing Championships in September and, while Patience admits it was a disappointing result, he is keen to put it into context. "I think when we look back at the season we have to be happy even though some of the results weren't exactly what we wanted," he said. "We were always in the medal races and we have only been together for a short amount of time so I think we are doing well. "The Olympics fuels the fire inside me and I think of it as going to take care of unfinished business. We have had a good season but there is no way that we are going to be resting on our laurels now. "We were disappointed with the result at the World Championships but we have to put that into context of how long we have been together. "It's not been easy and we have had to work really hard but we have got good chemistry on the boat and a huge amount of respect for each other and I think that makes a big difference." Patience recently took time out of his busy training schedule to recognise the efforts of youngsters taking part in the Get Set to Make a Change programme, a scheme that saw youngsters keep the spirit of London 2012 alive. But he admits any break is always a short one and the hard work is about to start all over again. "There's a break now and we'll do some work off the boat but we'll be off to Rio in December and will be working again and pushing hard to get to our best," Patience added. "We're right on course for Rio and at the moment it is just really romping up and getting serious now. "The Olympics are everyone's big goal and it's no different for us so we will be 100% focused improving and the signs are really positive for us so far. "I think our performances so far have been a really good sign and these few months have been an invaluable experience."

Mylor Sailability gets £50,000 funding boost

A CHARITY which gives sailing lessons to disabled people has been given more than £50,000 funding to create a new base. Mylor Sailability received £48,270 from Sport England's National Lottery-backed Inspired Facilities and £3,000 from Mylor Yacht Harbour to be used for their Let's Get Going project. The scheme is looking to bring a new home for the charity based in the harbour with classrooms, changing facilities, social area and specially designed pontoon to help wheelchair users or severely disabled sailors get on the boat. Work is set to begin on the plans over the winter and charity founder Tracey Boyne said the funding they have received provides a real boost for them. Boyne said: “At the moment we cannot run day time sessions in the summer due to lack of capacity with the commercial school. “The new classroom and social area will come complete with a sophisticated projector and hearing loop system to enable us to deliver the shore-based sessions to all participants working through the RYA scheme to help achieve certification. “The extra pontoon section will fit 90 degrees onto the end of our existing pontoon and this will make launching and landing so much easier.”

Sailing legend Sir Robin avoids Route de Rhun race drama which has seen 11 sailors withdraw in first two days

SIR Robin Knox Johnston has reported he is “fine, absolutely fine” after a dramatic first few days of racing in the Route de Rhum saw 11 competitors withdraw. Thomas Coville was forced to retire last night after a collision with cargo ship. Others have withdrawn from the race, which started off St Malo in France last Sunday, due to dismasting, broken rudders, shredded mainsails, lost keels, technical problems and personal injuries. But Hampshire legend Sir Robin, at 75 easily the eldest competitor in the race which finishes in Guadaloupe, has so far avoided all those issues – with a stomach upset his main worry. “I have seen gusts to 35 knots and am about 37 miles from Ushant,” Sir Robin reported. “The first night I did see a 40 knot gust at one stage but I was ready for it. “I got the third reef in and the storm jib up. “We were alright. I am fine, absolutely fine, just looking forwards to getting past Ushant and get away. “I always think you start racing at Finisterre but the main objective just now is just to get around Ushant. “I am eating properly now after my stomach upset, so I am all good.” Knox-Johnston’s Grey Power was this morning up to 12th in the class.

Brave Nottingham couple get ready to set sail through the Arctic

MARRIED couple Dave and Marie Ungless are preparing to brave freezing conditions as they take on an Arctic sailing challenge. The fearless duo have travelled the world on their trusty sailing boat but their latest adventure will see them crossing dangerous icy waters. Dave, 59, and Marie, 46, from Sherwood, will be moving to Alaska in two weeks’ time before setting sail around June next year. They will be heading north from Alaska through the Arctic Ocean and the Aleutian Islands, before voyaging to Greenland and Iceland. They will then begin the long journey home to the UK. Mr Ungless is a freelance travel writer and contributes to publications in the UK, New Zealand and Australia. He said that because of the harsh winter conditions the couple must acclimatise in Alaska before beginning their adventure. He said: “Normally, the journey can be done in one season, which is about two months. We’re not the first to have tried it and a number of other boats have attempted but failed. “The route wasn’t even possible a few years ago but because of global warming the passage is now open.” The pair married in 2011 after meeting at Dave’s former marketing business in the Lace Market, named Perspektiv Limited, which he sold in 2012. Both keen sailors, they have been travelling around the globe together since 2005 to remote locations including Sudan, Yemen and Indonesia as well as sailing this year to Tahiti, Hawaii and British Columbia, on the west coast of Canada, and now Alaska. They travel in their trusty sailing boat called Sänna, which has been adapted to include solar panels, a wind generator and a watermaker. Mr Ungless said: “We’ve been all over the world, it would be difficult to pick a favourite. British Columbia was really good. “I’ve been sailing most of my life. I lived in Scandinavia, Finland and Sweden for a while and I’ve sailed around the north west coast of Scotland. “I also do a lot of climbing and Alpine trekking. I’ve always lived an outdoors life.” First mate and wife Marie also loves the outdoors and has travelled nearly 30,000 miles over a number of the world’s oceans. Mrs Ungless said she always looks forward to every journey that the couple take. She said: “Everything we go on is interesting and an adventure. I have to admit, though, I do prefer the warmer climates! “I’ve always done a bit of sailing and spent a lot of time on the water, but Dave has taken it to a new level. “I think we’ve always fancied going to Alaska and it’s always just been one big journey, so it was like the next step and we love a challenge.”

Yacht and sailing survey underway

The RNLI Yacht Sailing Safety survey is currently underway and will run until November 9th. It is hoped the research will help improve sailing safety in the UK by providing the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) with a better understanding of yacht sailors in the UK - their participation, motivations and their experience of safety issues. This will provide valuable information so that safety messages and work undertaken by the RNLI, RYA (Royal Yachting Association) and MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) are targeted and relevant. Pip Hare, RNLI Coastal Safety Manager explains the reasoning behind the research project: “The RNLI exists to save lives at sea – a large part of that role is trying to prevent incidents from happening in the first place by providing important safety information. “RNLI incident data shows our lifeboat crews have rescued almost 9,850 yacht sailors in the last five years. “We’re always pleased to see people enjoying their leisure time at the coast and we want to help ensure they can take part in their chosen activity safely. “The aim of this research is to help us understand why people get involved and how they behave when they are on the water so we can provide the most relevant and useful safety information to them. “We’re working with the RYA and MCA to join expertise in coastal safety with experience of the sport. Once we have the results of the research, we will work together to develop the most suitable safety programmes and advice.

Wallasey Yacht Club awarded £73,000 of funding from Sport England

Wallasey Yacht Club is among 148 local sports projects to secure a share of £10 million of National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities fund. Since 2011, Inspired Facilities has been helping breathe new life into tired community sports facilities and converting existing buildings into venues suitable for grassroots sport. Wallasey Yacht Club will receive £73,012 of National Lottery funding to enlarge and upgrade its facilities at Hope Street, New Brighton. This will enable it to offer the chance to a greater range of people to experience the sport of sailing on the lake and river at New Brighton. The improvements include increasing boat storage on recently acquired land adjacent to the club, upgrading existing workshops and changing facilities and the addition of a disabled changing room. This is the first of two planned phases for the club to improve facilities, with an emphasis on accessibility. Sport England Property Director, Charles Johnston, said: “The Inspired Facilities Fund has had a huge impact on grassroots sport across the country. Since 2011, we’ve invested £94 million into more than 1,800 projects to improve and refurbish sports clubs and transform non-sporting venues into vibrant community sports clubs. “It’s great to see Wallasey Yacht Club join the long list of successful clubs to benefit from this fund.” Club President, Peter Shillinglaw, said: “We are delighted to have secured this investment, which means we can upgrade the quality of our premises to match our planned programme of attracting new members, young and old by offering the training and experience required to appreciate the sport.” Local MP, Angela Eagle, said: “The club has a proud history stretching back to 1903, and has contributed much to the local community during my time as an MP. This grant will now enable the club to continue to flourish, by allowing extra storage for their expanding membership fleet, especially boats for the junior section and to improve facilities for disabled members.” Many more communities are set to benefit from the hugely popular fund with the latest round of the Inspired Facilities now open. Community and voluntary organisations, councils and schools can bid for a share of £20 million to help upgrade facilities that can be unattractive, expensive to run and difficult to maintain, and to convert existing non-sporting buildings into venues that are suitable for grassroots sport. To find out more and bid, visit www.sportengland.org/inspiredfacilities .

Islington Boat Club have the wind in their sails

Islington Boat Club, the only water based activity centre in the borough, launched a fleet of 11 new sailing boats last Thursday. The boats, costing a total of £15,000 were gifted to the club by development company Mount Anvil, the group behind ‘The Eagle’, a luxury apartment block currently under construction on City Road overlooking the basin used by the club. Amanda Corcoran, Islington Boat Club’s Development Officer said: “Without Kevin, from Mount Anvil, who gave us the money to purchase the sailing boats this wouldn’t have been able to happen.” The boats will add a new activity to the long list already offered by the club which includes kayaking, canoeing, power boating and bell boating. Islington Boat Club, with the Mount Anvil development looming overhead Islington Boat Club, with Mount Anvil’s ‘The Eagle’ tower looming overhead Young people from The area can also take part in art and self-defence classes off the water. Teresa Debono, the Mayor of Islington, cut the ribbon to officially open the event and launch the fleet. After officially launching she said: “I’m very pleased that I’ve had the opportunity tonight to celebrate the fantastic work that is being done here and I know you are all very, very enthusiastic. “I hope you can continue for many, many, Many years to come.” Kevin Payne, a Project Director at Mount Anvil, said: “When I’m standing up on the 36th floor of Lexicon, looking out over the City Road Basin, it’s amazing to see so many young people out sailing.”

Could this be the most glamorous UK apprenticeship? With Caribbean potential

Girls For Sail founder Annie O’Sullivan said today that the Cowes-based company is looking for a new member of the team to join the ten-strong crew who run Britain and Europe’s only ladies sailing company. And she’s promised she’ll utter Sir Alan’s immortal line from the hit BBC show ‘You’re Hired’ to the candidate who wows her with their willingness to learn the ropes – literally! Relocate to the Caribbean? Annie also revealed that the role could be based in the Caribbean on the island of St. Lucia, making this possibly the UK’s most glamorous apprenticeship. Girls For Sail celebrates fifteen years training women to sail and race in the UK, across the Atlantic and in the Caribbean. Thousands of women have learned to sail with the firm since its launch in 1999. Room for one more onboard Now according to Annie there is a space for a new apprentice to jump aboard and be taken through the highly regarded Royal Yachting Association training scheme all with the support of the Girls For Sail team. Award-winning RYA instructor and mentor Annie said: “It’s imperative to me to make sure that we continue to be able to encourage women into sailing. And that includes supporting women into sailing as a career as well as enjoying it as the wonderful sport that it is. “We are devoted to helping women discover the freedom and exhilaration of sailing for themselves in all its forms and that includes starting at the bottom and working their way up to gain full skipper’s accreditation. “Being a Girls for Sail apprentice is hard work but it is fantastic fun. There really is no better way to learn than by being on one of our boats and seeing how our incredible skippers cope with everyday challenges as well as ensuring that all the maintenance and safety gear is in place. “This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is looking to work in a totally engaging industry with a growing company committed to staff development.” Hot Stuff Girls for Sail skipper Sarah Waters has delivered Girls for Sail’s yacht Hot Stuff to Gran Canaria in preparation for the ARC transAtlantic crossing to St. Lucia in November. Sarah began her training with the Isle of Wight firm as an apprentice at the firm’s base at Shepherd’s Wharf Marina. Sarah, 30, first encountered Girls For Sail as a customer, but loved sailing so much she joined as an apprentice. She has worked with GFS to become a fully qualified ocean-going sailor. Sarah said: “Joining Girls for Sail is the best thing I’ve ever done. I’m about to take a wonderful crew of ladies across the Atlantic. Then we’ll stay at Girls for Sail’s island home in St. Lucia. Really, what could be better? I find teaching women to sail so very rewarding and I hope we find the next apprentice who will enjoy this as much as I do.” Annie added: “Sarah is a prime example of what one of our apprentices can achieve. We want to be able to make sure that someone else achieves that same sense of personal satisfaction when they join us.” For more information about the role please contact Girls For Sail on 01983 282867.

Scotland for sail: Sector targets £1 million boost

A new campaign to encourage more people to enjoy a sailing holiday in Scotland could boost the economy by over £1 million*, Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing announced . Mr Ewing was at Inverness Marina this morning to announce the launch of Sail Scotland’s used campaign, Sailing to Success, which has been supported by a £22,500 grant from the VisitScotland Growth Fund. As part of its year-long £45,000 campaign, Sail Scotland – the national marketing organisation for sailing tourism – will also receive £11,000 from Scottish Development International, which will help the group access international markets and achieve its growth ambitions. It is estimated that Scotland’s sailing industry is worth £101m a year, supporting 2700 jobs all over Scotland. The overall aim of Sail Scotland’s used campaign is to generate an extra 8,382 visitor boat nights from its target markets, delivering £1,089,660 of additional expenditure into the Scottish economy. Founded 20 years ago, Sail Scotland is an industry-led marketing group, currently with nearly 50 member businesses throughout the country, ranging from single-person charter businesses to large marinas, harbours and leisure groups. Sail Scotland will use part of the funding to extend its reach in the international market. It will exhibit at a number of international boat shows in 2015: in Dusseldorf, Gothenburg, Oslo and Wales, giving members a presence on the global stage. The campaign will also include development of the Sail Scotland brand, and targeted promotional marketing activities. Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said: “I am delighted to announce that Sail Scotland is the oldest recipient of an award from the VisitScotland Growth Fund. This £22,500 grant will help the group to promote sailing holidays in Scotland to a wider audience and, given the quality of destinations and facilities on offer in this country, I have no doubt they will succeed in their aim to attract thousands more enthusiasts to these shores over the coming year.” Daniel Steel, Chief Executive of Sail Scotland, said: “At Sail Scotland we have been working hard to promote the industry for 20 years, and it is great to see Scotland beginning to realise the true potential of sailing and boating tourism. “With a draft marine tourism strategy in development, this is a tangible example of how the industry will play a leading role in delivering growth. This funding will help fund one of the most ambitious marketing plans in our history, further raising awareness of Scotland as a world-class sailing destination both within the UK and overseas. “Along with recent investment in our digital work, and existing activities such as our annual brochure and presence at London Boat Show, we aim to drive visits by offering a range of options for beginners to experienced yachtsmen, with the ultimate aim of generating an extra 8,000 visitor boat nights for Scotland.” Mike Cantlay, Chairman of VisitScotland, said: “With thousands of miles of stunning coastline and hundreds of islands ready to be explored, Scotland really is the perfect destination for a sailing holiday. The VisitScotland Growth Fund encourages tourism businesses to work together and Sail Scotland is a perfect example of this. Incorporating the smallest charter companies to the biggest marinas, the group already does an excellent job of promoting sailing holidays in Scotland and we are thrilled to help its members expand their reach in the global market.” Graeme White, Head of Tourism at Scottish Development International, said: “Sail Scotland’s International Strategy is targeting growth of over £1 million a year in visitor spend with the businesses in and out of the water around our coastline, lochs and canals. We’re supporting this strategy with funding to help Sail Scotland’s team target these international audiences as well as connecting the organisation with our overseas offices to access networks and market research.” Between 2011 and 2013, VisitScotland Growth Fund awarded over £1 million in match-funding to national, regional and sectoral tourism groups, resulting in £2.3m being invested in marketing campaigns, involving more than 2,000 tourism businesses across Scotland. For more information on Sail Scotland go to www.sailscotland.co.uk

Sailing Hydrofoil CATRI 24 trimaran - Latvia to England

Dysart Sailing Club hoping for an ‘oil’ boom

A Fife sailing club is in buoyant mood after unveiling plans to restore its former clubhouse. Members of Dysart Sailing Club have been all at sea after their former premises were destroyed by fire nearly three years ago. However, plans to renovate the historic “Oil Shed” have now been put forward in a move members hope will bring a new lease of life to the club. “We’re hoping to host an open day to show the public and local people what we are going to be doing,” said Commodore Billy Shields. “The plans are to put in beds so coastal path walkers and visiting sailors can stay over. “Dysart Harbour has been neglected for years, including the harbour walls and the Sailor’s Walk. “Hopefully, this can help to change that.” Members of the club were left distraught in January 2012 when they heard their clubhouse, a 19th Century listed building, had been destroyed by fire. Along with the virtual destruction of the building, thousands of pounds-worth of equipment also went up in smoke. Since then the group has been operating out of small sheds at the harbour as plans were formulated to renovate the clubhouse. “We were all devastated when the fire happened,” added Mr Shields. “The lino on the floor was custom-made and there were photographs of the club going way back. “It was stuff that could not be replaced. It was priceless to us.” Known as the Oil Shed, the building sat below a sheer cliff face in the heart of the village’s conservation area. It was originally constructed in 1835 as a base to process whale blubber at a time when the Kirkcaldy area hosted a thriving whaling fleet. A lottery funding application will be made to cover the cost of the project and it is hoped the new building will help start a wider redevelopment of the
harbour. Already popular with visitors, local councillor Kay Carrington believes restoring the building could attract even more people to the area. “This will hopefully be a first step in regenerating the harbour,” she said. “We want to do everything that we can to keep Dysart on the tourist trail. “We’ve already had provisional talks with Fife Coast and Countryside Trust and Fife Council and if we are successful with our funding bid, then the harbour could become an even greater asset to the community.”

Sailors battle for regatta honours

OXFORD sailors did battle on the high seas of Farmoor Reservoir in the Oxford Sailability regatta. The group, which supports disabled sailors, meets at the reservoir every Tuesday but this week there was a competitive edge as they battled for victory and bragging rights. Ian Cox and able-bodied volunteer Rose Todd came second in the two-berth 303 class. Ms Todd, from Steeple Aston, said: “We were really lucky with the weather and the conditions were perfect. “There was some really competitive sailing, they pushed their boats to the limit. A lot of the people coming here have motor neurone disease and sailing means a life that would otherwise be constrained is opened up to adventure.”

Warwick woman is still shipshape at the age of 95

At the grand old age of 95, Daphne Hinton says there’s nothing to beat the wind in the face and the taste of the sea. And that’s what sprightly Daphne has just done – even taking over the helm of the sailing ship Tenacious, all 586 tons of it. Her energy and stamina even impressed the crew – they were astounded when on return to ship one day she bounded up a steep gangplank which was brought up by the rising sea. The tall ship is 213 feet long, has three masts, 13,000 square feet of sails and is designed to accommodate anyone aged over 16 with a disability. Despite being partially blind Daphne quickly found her sea legs again during the five-day voyage from Southampton, including the Isle of Wight and Poole Harbour. Daphne said: “I find the rhythm of the sea suits me – it’s doing something physical. “I swim and bowl and doing sailing is an extra thing to do . “A lot of people when they get older are not so active or maybe a bit afraid of the sea, but I would encourage more to try it. “I think I was the oldest lady on the ship but some of the others were in their 70s and 80s. I would encourage more elderly people to take part.” But Daphne, a former accountant who retired aged 82, and who lives in Garden Court, Warwick, said people can’t just sit back on a tall ship. “You have to be prepared to help out and join in. You must not be too much of a passenger – it’s not like a cruise.” While Daphne was on the Tenacious she said there were 32 “holiday crew”, such as herself, where half could have sensory or physical disabilities, and 12 permanent crew. One of the highlights of the trip was taking over the helm of the Tenacious, with the help of a crew member and an electronic voice to guide her course. “That was incredible – I actually got on the helm, even though I’m partially blind. “I was on the helm for half an hour,” and jokingly added: “So no time to sail it onto the rocks or the Needles. “The feel of the wind and sea on the face is invigorating.” She’s now getting used to being a landlubber again but said she misses the ship routine included pulling on the ropes to operate the sails. This is the third time she’s taken to seas on a tall ship but now wonders if it’s time to put anchor down permanently. “The crew asked me if I’ll do it again –I will have to see. I think I’m getting a bit past it now. “But when they send me the details – I think I can do it again. “I think my daughter Sarah thinks I’m mad, but I think she had faith that I could do it.” Daphne, who used to live in Barwell Close, Leamington, and ran an arts and craft shop in Warwick, was also treasurer of the Warwicshire Symphony Orchestra. She celebrates her 96th birthday on Halloween. The STS Tenacious is run by the Jubilee Sailing Trust. Phone 02380 449108. www.jst.org.uk

Scotland,s BOAT Show Sails To Success

MORE than 13,000 visitors flocked to Scotland’s Boat Show 2014 at Kip Marina, Inverkip last weekend with boat sales topping £2million, a figure which should double as more purchases are completed. The event is the largest boat show in Scotland -- the third largest in the UK -- and had more than £15million worth of boats on display, from a £500 dinghy to an £800,000 Sunseeker luxury powerboat. Designated a an official Homecoming Scotland 2014 event, the show attracted visitors from far and wide after global promotion by EventScotland and VisitScotland. Boat sales began straight away with a brand new Hanse 325 being sold at 10.30am on opening day followed throughout the weekend by sales totalling more than £2 million – a number which is expected to double as prospective buyers complete their purchases. New boat sales reached pre-recession levels with three sold during the weekend and a record level of new enquiries. Miles Stratton of Inspiration Marine Group said: “We are delighted with the sales and interest in our new boats which is a direct result of Scotland’s Boat Show bringing the product to the right market and we are already looking to increase the number of new boats on display for 2015” Returning as a main sponsor, RYA Scotland hosted a full programme of activities both on and off the water including taster sessions for young sailors in special Clyde Muirshiel access dinghies and the chance to drive a powerful RIB with Seatrek Training. Claire Caffrey, RYA marketing manager, said: “As one of the main sponsors of Scotland’s Boat Show, RYA Scotland were delighted to have supported another successful and busy boat show. We managed to get well over 100 people on the water on the Saturday and Sunday alone. The show is a fantastic opportunity for us to talk to our members and the Scottish sailing community face to face and is also the perfect platform from which to promote what RYA Scotland does. Hopefully lots of visitors to the show have gone home inspired to start or do more sailing in 2015.” Also available via RYA Scotland was the unique opportunity of touring Round the World Clipper yachts ‘Old Pulteney’ and ‘Clyde Challenger’ which were being shown together for the first time in the UK. Adding to the atmosphere on water were displays of Flyboarding from Mike Dear of WetJets.co.uk who introduced the crowds to the latest extreme water sport that lifts people up to 30 feet into the air on a jet of water. On shore there was plenty to see and do with the latest marine equipment on display in the RYA Scotland Pavilion, luxury cars from Bentley, Maserati, McLaren and Morgan, the Clyde Life-Style Marquee which hosted dozens of artisan traders showing everything from candles to furniture, and a farmers' market with fresh and organic foods from local quality suppliers. There was also the opportunity for visitors to explore Scottish family links in the Ancestry Research Centre presented by IBM with the aid of experts from the Renfrewshire Family History Society. Completing the attractions ashore were a children’s play area, and high quality musical entertainment from the Isle of Cumbrae Pipe Band and Inverclyde Rock Choir, both of which attracted large crowds during their performances. New as a partner for the show was the Inverclyde Living Marquee in which several local organisations showcased the many opportunities available for quality waterside living and working while taking advantage of the stunning views and unrivalled value for money house prices that Inverclyde can offer. Again hugely popular this year, judging by the constant queues to take part, were the helicopter flights that took visitors high over Ardgowan Estate along the river and then gave a spectacular view of Kip Marina and the crowds. The aerobatic display of the RAF Tutor Display Aircraft and the incredible skills of pilot Andy Preece as he performed a series of loops and spins over the marina in the single seat aircraft used to train the RAF’s fighter pilots was perhaps the highlight of the weekend. Holt Leisure Group and Kip Marina’s managing director Gavin McDonagh said “We believe this year’s show was our biggest and best yet and, from the reaction of visitors and exhibitors alike, they seem to agree with us, particularly as 75 per cent of exhibitors have already enquired about returning next year. For 2015 we aim to continue the expansion of Scotland’s Boat Show and are delighted to bring thousands of visitors to see the best of Inverclyde." David Pugh, editor of Practical Boat Owner, largest circulation marine magazine and website in the UK, said: "This was my second year representing Practical Boat Owner at Scotland's Boat Show and, once again, it was worth every minute spent and every mile getting here. For us it's not about selling magazines and subscriptions, although we did plenty of that as well,¬ but more about meeting readers in a different part of the British Isles and in an absolutely stunning sailing location. Kip hosts a great show, and I hope it continues to grow and provide a great destination for boaters from all over the UK." Scotland’s Boat Show 2015 takes place on the 9, 10 and 11 October next year. Scotland's Boat Show is particularly grateful to sponsors partners RYA Scotland, Henri Lloyd, Inverclyde Living, IBM, Sunseeker, Sail Scotland and Homecoming Scotland whose support enable the event to remain free admission.

Call for Cornish sailors to help with RNLI sea safety research

Cornish sailors are being asked to take part in research by the RNLI examining attitudes towards risk and safety. The project, supported by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Royal Yachting Association, will look at what motivates sailors, how often they go to sea, their experience and training, awareness of potential hazards and use of safety procedures and equipment. The findings will be used to help develop tailored and relevant safety messages for yacht sailing community. An online questionnaire for anyone who participates in yacht sailing will run for five weeks, supplemented by focus groups held in selected locations. Pip Hare, RNLI coastal safety manager, explained the reasoning behind the research project. She said: "The RNLI exists to save lives at sea – a large part of that role is trying to prevent incidents from happening in the first place by providing important safety information. RNLI incident data shows our lifeboat crews have rescued almost 9,850 yacht sailors in the last five years. "We’re always pleased to see people enjoying their leisure time at the coast and we want to help ensure they can take part in their chosen activity safely. "The aim of this research is to help us understand why people get involved and how they behave when they are on the water so we can provide the most relevant and useful safety information to them. We’re working with the RYA and MCA to join expertise in coastal safety with experience of the sport. Once we have the results of the research, we will work together to develop the most suitable safety programmes and advice." Stuart Carruthers, cruising manager at the RYA, said: "Recreational boating activities are predominantly safe and fun, but accidents which could have been prevented do happen. The RYA’s advice – look after yourself; have a plan; keep in touch and know your limits – underpin the RYA ethos of self-reliance and responsibility for safety on board. The RYA supports this research because it will provide a clearer insight of people’s attitudes to their safety and help us to promote safe behaviour and practice in a more effective way." Kirsten Pointer, head of evidence analysis and research from the MCA, added: "The results of this survey will really help to provide an evidence base to support the improvement of yachting safety standards." Those wishing to participate in the survey can visit http://www.rnliyachting.substance.coop/, and all who participate in the survey are offered the option of free entry into a prize draw to win a McMurdo Fast Find personal locator beacon, with a winner to be chosen by 15 November 2014.

'I sense my late wife with me on the water' says disabled Derby sailor Chris Molesworth

YOU know when disabled Chris Molesworth is sailing solo because his empty wheelchair is parked on the jetty. But while the 49-year-old, who has cerebral palsy, enjoys the open water his thoughts turn to his late wife, Kat, who bought him the boat. "She left me some money and I bought Dreamcatcher – my sailing boat," said Chris, who lives on Lower Eley Street in Derby. "She died four years ago and sometimes, when I'm on the water, I think she's around and watching me. It's all thanks to Kat and her family in America." Chris, who cannot walk and has limited speech, married Kat Vineyard ten years ago. He met his Memphis belle on the internet in 2000 and the pair fell in love. They tied the knot four years later. "Her death was sudden," said Chris, who uses an electric wheelchair and needs round-the-clock care. "I had been out sailing and when I got back home, she was dead. She was in the chair and it was a very big shock. I was told she had a blood clot in her lung. It was very upsetting at the time. "When we were together, she knew how much I loved to go sailing but I could never afford to buy my own boat. "She told me one day I'd get one and then she died and left me some money." Chris spent £8,000 on Dreamcatcher – a small sailing boat, which he keeps at Swarkestone Sailing Club. Last month, all the specialist adaptations were finally finished and now he is sailing solo. "When I was sailing with a crew in a double-handed boat I felt fairly free," said Chris. "But now, sailing solo gives me the chance to be totally independent. "Getting away from my wheelchair for a couple of hours means everything to me. "Once my personal assistant has helped me into the boat and set my battery-powered control system up, it is down to me to control Dreamcatcher. "Where we go and how fast we go is up to me. And yes, I still make mistakes." It has taken four years to get Chris's boat adapted to suit his needs. His friend and fellow sailor, Mark Alton, has been instrumental in the work. The 55-year-old, from Sawley, designed and built a unique foot-steering device so Chris can manage the controls himself. Mark said: "It has taken a very long time. Most of the bits and pieces we bought were from eBay. "I'm a sailor myself so I know about boats but trying to adapt a boat for a person with huge mobility restrictions is very tricky. "Chris's level of disability did cause me a few problems and we also had to stick to a pretty tight budget. But we've done it and that is really all that matters." Mark used to work for Chris as one of his personal assistants. Now he meets him at Swarkestone Sailing Club and helps him sail. Every week he volunteers his time to Chris, preparing the boat for use. Mark said: "He's just a regular bloke. It seemed like the right thing to do. When he bought the boat, he wanted to get it adapted for him. "I liked the whole idea. We have modified it and now it's good. I've done a lot of head-scratching over the last couple of years." Chris is indebted to Mark and cannot thank him enough for what he has done for him. Living with a disability is tough and he gets down, but sailing puts a smile on his face. Chris said: "If Mark had not helped me, I would still be sailing with him. He would be helping me to control the boat and we would have to go out together. "But now I can go on my own and I can race against other sailors – whatever their ability. "Mark made me my own foot-steering system and winch. He is a very talented man. He was one of my personal assistants – that's how we met." Chris called his boat Dreamcatcher because Kat loved making them and putting them up round the house. He still misses her very much. Now he is reliant on a huge amount of support from his carers. "I'm all right," he said, despite shedding a few tears during the interview. "When I sail, I can relax and think about things. I feel at one with nature. Kat helped me to do this and now I look forward to Wednesdays, when I can go sailing. "Racing gives you the thrill of battling against the elements. It can be frustrating when there is no wind but it can also be scary when the wind is strong and catches me unaware. "Sailing has set new goals for me and given my enthusiasm for the sport." Leah Webb, 21, is Chris's carer today. She has helped to translate for Chris, who can struggle to make himself understood. "I am one of Chris's personal assistants," she said. "But it isn't like work. It's like hanging out with a friend. He does so well and he's brilliant at sailing. "I go with him sometimes on a Wednesday and you can see him smiling. "He loves it and I know he would like to go more. "Losing Kat was devastating but there was a silver lining – and that's the Dreamcatcher. "I know he misses her very much but the boat means everything to him now." CHRIS'S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DREAM Chris would love to compete in the Hansa Class TT Series – a collection of sailing races which take place across the UK next year. But his biggest wish is to enter the World Championships in 2016. “The one thing stopping me now is the money,” said Chris. “I really need to find some sponsorship so I can get to these events.” Chris’s disability means he needs to employ carers to accompany him on the trips. He also needs to transport his boat and pay for suitable overnight accommodation which can cater for disabled people. “I am now trying to get sponsorship,” he said. “But most companies will only sponsor groups or organisations, rather than individual people. “This is difficult when you are in a sport like sailing, trying to represent your country. “Part of my dream has come true because I’m sailing. But now I would really like to start competing.” Chris has already entered the European Assess Championships, which are being held at Rutland Water in July 2016. Before then, he hopes to have secured a sponsorship deal. He needs about £2,000 to take part in the Hansa Class TT Series, which is made up of ten races. “I would be really happy to put the company logo on Dreamcatcher,” he said. “I could put it on the trailer as well.” For more information about Chris and his sailing, visit www.sailingendeavour.weebly. com.

Scottish Sailing tourism strategy input invited

A Marine Tourism Strategy for Scotland consultation is being launched today, with input invited from interested parties. Generating more than £100 million a year for the Scottish economy, and with market share predicted to increase to £145 million in the next ten years, sailing tourism is set to become one of the fastest growing activity markets for Scottish tourism. A group of key industries, supported by HIE, is urging businesses, communities and individuals from across the marine tourism sector to take part in a consultation on the draft Marine Tourism Strategy. The strategy is being launched today at the Scotland Boat Show in Inverkip, Renfrewshire. It can be viewed at www.hie.co.uk/marinetourismstrategy Scotland is already recognised internationally as being a world class sailing destination. The industry has set out ambitious plans to enhance its reputation across international markets, and to develop a world class visitor experience as well as for Scotland to be internationally recognised as a vibrant high quality destination for events with first rate facilities. The consultation will ensure the public play a full part in shaping the future of marine tourism in Scotland. Steven Dott, HIE’s Senior Development Manager, said: “Sailing tourism, in particular is a key area of the marine offering in Scotland, bringing a very high spending tourism market to many of the remote and fragile communities of the Highlands and Islands. “Given the massive growth potential of sailing tourism and the potential impacts on communities right acrossour region, one of our most important areas of work is to grow this sector. Having a more coordinated approach across the sector will help build on recent investments in projects such as Portavadie, Stornoway, and across the Highlands and Islands. “This strategy will be used to inform decision making and activity across the sector in Scotland. From the outset, it seeks to work in collaboration at every level and is relevant to all businesses. Both British Marine Federation Scotland (BMFS) and Sail Scotland have played key roles in contributing to the growth and reputation of Scotland’s marine tourism businesses. As a world class sailing destination, we at HIE on behalf of the enterprise agencies are delighted to provide financial assistance to continue this work at a critical time of the sector’s development.” HIE has been working closely with the sailing industry bodies including BMFS and Sail Scotland, the national marketing organisation for the marine tourism sector, in shaping and implementing the strategy. A three-year finding package of £72,446 from HIE to BMFS will enable them to communicate and support the delivery of the strategy. Simon Limb, Chairman of BMFS, said: “Scotland’s beautiful waters are unique – a national asset with space and capacity to grow. By working together with a defined strategy and direction, we can create large actions and results to unlock the future success of our marine and recreational boating tourism industry and realise our important contribution to Scotland’s growing economy” HIE is assisting Sail Scotland with £108,000 which includes support for a Chief Executive post for three years, enhancement to Sail Scotland’s digital presence, including a new website and it also supports a graduate placement post – part of HIE’s ScotGrad programme. Gavin McDonagh, Chairman of Sail Scotland said: “There is no doubt that sailing in Scotland is a massive attraction. We have the variety of sailing waters together with the light and scenery rivalling anywhere in the world. This strategy is designed so that all partners involved in growing the marine sector work together to sell and market sailing in Scotland to its full potential. There is no doubt that with support from key agencies and with industry pulling together we can ensure that Scotland is a destination of first choice for sailing.” James Stuart, Chief Executive of Royal Yachting Association Scotland, said: “The publication of this strategy is a major milestone in the development of Scotland’s marine tourism sector. It is the product of over four years work; starting with drawing together key groups and organisations as part of a cross party group and now building on the National Tourism Strategy: Tourism Scotland 2020. “We have some of the very best sailing and boating waters in the world and by working to ensure all visitors to these waters have the very best experience possible our sports and our economy with thrive. That is why we are pleased to have played a part in getting the strategy to this stage and we remain committed to it as we step forward into delivery. “Like all strategies, the impact is derived for those who are on the water and involved in the activity on a day to day basis. It is really important that all those who feel they have an interest share their thoughts to make the plan as good as it can be.” The draft strategy focuses on the vision that by 2020 Scotland will be a marine destination of first choice for a high quality, value for money and memorable customer experience delivered by skilled and passionate people. The draft strategy can be viewed at www.hie.co.uk/marinetourismstrategy

Disabled UK sailor returns from a voyage around the world

SAILING enthusiast James Whale has returned home from a voyage around the world. James, who has cerebral palsy, has completed the last leg of the journey on the disability-friendly ship Lord Nelson. The 27-year-old has travelled 14,000 nautical miles on the ship, visiting countries including Australia, Brazil and Canada as part of the Jubilee Sailing Trust crew. Now he has spoken of his adventures on board the vessel. James, from Maer, near Newcastle, said: "I have had a brilliant time but it is really nice to be home. "The thing I missed most was seeing my family. I also missed eating oatcakes. "When I came home, I drove to my regular oatcake shop to buy some. "I first got into sailing when my mum booked me on a five-day journey on a vessel for my 21st birthday, so when I found out about the world trip, I decided to sign up to be part of the crew. "It was really hard work, but I enjoyed every minute of it because I love learning about sailing. "Out of all the countries I visited, my favourite one was Australia because the weather was really nice. "At times, it was a bit scary when the sea was choppy. But I much prefer sailing to flying. "I have a fear of flying, although I had to go on a plane to get to some of the destinations to board the boat, so I don't feel as scared anymore. "It has been amazing and I would definitely like to do something like this again." James began his first leg from Southampton to Brazil in October 2012 and spent more than 70 days at sea before flying home. In June last year, he flew to Singapore to join the 55-metre long ship on the second leg of his journey before the crew made its way to Australia. James then completed his last journey from Brazil to Canada before the ship sailed back to England. Mum Elena Sudlow, aged 53, from Maer, said: "I am really proud of James and everything he has achieved. "A lot of people were surprised when I told them about his journey. "But he is proof that you can do anything you want, with or without a disability. "James is a massive Stoke City fan and every time he climbed up the mast, he made sure to wear his football shirt so everyone knew about his passion for the team. "His stepfather David and I went to meet him in London when the ship came back to the UK on September 19. "He was over the moon when he saw us because he didn't expect us to come until the Friday after when the ship would be back in Southampton, where it is docked. "James initially wanted to be on the ship for the whole two-year journey, but no one is allowed to be on it for that length of time. "It was worrying when I got emails from him telling me the boat was travelling through storms, but he has coped with everything really well. "He has made a lot of new friends on his adventure and he is more confident now."

This Dog Was Born To Sail! Just Watch What He Can Do On A Boat! Unbelievable!

Oban Marina unable to sell fuel to yachts

Oban Marina, on the isle of Kerrera across the bay from Oban, previously had its diesel delivered on a landing craft. But the marina has been told the vessel does not comply with Coastguard regulations for transporting diesel. Neil Price, director of operations at the marina, said: “It became apparent we weren’t adhering to regulations, which we didn’t realise. We are now working with the MCA to remedy that.” Joey Gough, a member of Oban Sailing Club, who owns the yacht Tangle O’ The Isles said: “It is certainly an inconvenience. I went to pick up fuel at Oban Marina the other day and only found out they aren’t doing it when I got in. We ended up having to change our plans because we had insufficient fuel to get to Tobermory and it was too late to go to Dunstaffnage Marina, which was closed by that time. “You can buy fuel at the South Pier in Oban but it is awkward, because that is where the fishing fleet is. “Oban Marina is popular with visitors so this is not an ideal situation.” Part of the success of the marina relies on the ability to sell fuel to visiting boats. The only other option for yacht owners to purchase fuel in Oban Bay is at the Railway Pier, which is where the CalMac ferries and the fishing fleet berth and is much busier. A spokesman for the MCA said: “We received a complaint that diesel was being delivered to the Oban marina by a vessel without the proper certification for transporting dangerous goods. After they were contacted, the operators of the marina have ceased to use the craft to carry diesel and we are working with them to find an appropriate solution.” Oban Marina and Yacht Services Ltd is in sight of Oban town centre. It runs an hourly ferry service from Kerrera to Oban and has a popular restaurant which is open throughout the summer, the Waypoint Bar and Grill. The marina has 100 pontoons and 30 moorings.

British Sailing Team concludes mid-cycle squad review

The RYA’s Olympic Steering Group has finalised its latest periodical review of the British Sailing Team squads following the Santander 2014 ISAF Sailing World Championships, with a number of changes at the Podium level as the focus towards Rio 2016 intensifies. The Podium squad in the Olympic classes has been narrowed to 29 sailors across the ten events, with 14 of those sailors having qualified for the highest tier of funding via UK Sport’s World Class Performance Programme following medal-winning performances at key regattas. In addition to this, the Nacra 17 and 49erFX classes have seen crew changes, with Ben Saxton now partnering Nicola Groves, who transitions to the multihull from the 49erFX, while Groves’ former helm Frances Peters will now sail with Katrina Best in the women’s skiff. Hannah Diamond, who previously paired with Saxton, will be trialling various potential helms in the Nacra 17 class. The Podium squad will be underpinned by 50 Podium Potential sailors who have the opportunity to learn through the second half of this cycle as they prepare to launch their campaigns for Tokyo 2020. RYA Olympic Manager Stephen Park explained: 'We’re halfway through the Rio cycle now, and at this stage at the Podium level it’s about trying to narrow down the numbers so that we can increase the level of focus and support that we can give to those sailors who we think, by their performances to date, are most likely to be challenging for podium places come 2016. 'Clearly there are some sailors who will be disappointed by some of these decisions, but it’s an important part of the process towards evaluating and refining the programmes in each of the classes, and delivering the support that hopefully will allow sailors to move from fourth or fifth places to the podium, and then into those gold medal positions. 'It’s that fine detail of review, planning, delivery and execution that will see those gold medals being won in a couple of years, and we’ll keep taking those steps and making refinements towards our target.' British Sailing Team October-December 2014 Podium Squad Olympic Classes: Giles Scott (Finn), Ed Wright (Finn), Nick Thompson (Laser), Alison Young (Laser Radial), Chloe Martin (Laser Radial), Nick Dempsey (RS:X Men), Bryony Shaw (RS:X Women), Izzy Hamilton (RS:X Women), Hannah Mills-Saskia Clark (470 Women), Sophie Weguelin-Eilidh McIntyre (470 Women), Luke Patience-Elliot Willis (470 Men), Dylan Fletcher-Alain Sign (49er), John Pink-Stuart Bithell (49er), Charlotte Dobson-Sophie Ainsworth (49erFX), Frances Peters-Katrina Best (49erFX), Pippa Wilson-John Gimson (Nacra 17), Lucy Macgregor-Andrew Walsh (Nacra 17), Ben Saxton-Nicola Groves (Nacra 17), Hannah Diamond (Nacra 17) Podium Squad Paralympic Classes: Helena Lucas (2.4mR), Megan Pascoe (2.4mR), Alexandra Rickham-Niki Birrell (SKUD), John Robertson-Hannah Stodel-Steve Thomas (Sonar) Podium Potential Squad Olympic Classes: Peter McCoy (Finn), Ben Cornish (Finn), James Hadden (Finn), Hector Simpson (Finn), Lorenzo Chiavarini (Laser), Alex Mills-Barton (Laser), Martin Evans (Laser), Elliot Hanson (Laser), Jack Wetherall (Laser), Michael Beckett (Laser), Hannah Snellgrove (Laser Radial), Georgina Povall (Laser Radial), Ellie Cumpsty (Laser Radial), Rhiannon Massey (Laser Radial), Tom Squires (RS:X Men), Joe Bennett (RS:X Men), Connor Bainbridge (RS:X Men), Kieran Martin (RS:X Men), Sam Sills (RS:X Men), Ali Masters (RS:X Men), Imogen Sills (RS:X Women), Saskia Sills (RS:X Women), Noelle Finch (RS:X Women), Anna Burnet-Flora Stewart (470 Women), Amy Seabright-Anna Carpenter (470 Women), Katie Tomsett (470 Women), Kirstie Urwin (470 Women), Jess Lavery-Megan Brickwood (470 Women), Mike Wood (470 Men), James Peters (49er), Fynn Sterritt (49er), Ed Fitzgerald (49er), Chris Taylor-Sam Batten (49er), Jack Hawkins-Chris Thomas (49er), Kate Macgregor (49erFX), Vikki Payne-Steph Orton (49erFX), Tilly James-Alice Masterman (49erFX), Owen Bowerman-Morgan Peach (49erFX), Rupert White-Nikki Boniface (Nacra 17), Tom Phipps-Mary Rook (Nacra 17) Podium Potential Squad Paralympic Classes: Will Street (2.4mR), Carol Dugdale (2.4mR), John Brooker (2.4mR), Jonathan Currell (2.4mR), Craig Wood (2.4mR/Sonar), Steve Palmer (2.4mR/Sonar), Alex Hovden (SKUD)

Bottlenose Dolphins visit Tobermory Bay

Bolton Sailing Club gets special boat for disabled sailors

DISABLED sportsmen and women can set sail on a new adventure thanks to a donation from a tissue making firm. SCA Manchester, who are entering an all-woman team in this year’s round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race, have donated a dinghy suitable for disabled adults and children to Bolton Sailing Club. The firm, based at Trafford Park in Manchester, was keen to ensure people from all walks of life were given the chance to sail. The double-handed access dinghy is specially designed with simple controls and features to keep users safe. Sailors at Bolton Sailing Club’s Belmont Reservoir base are delighted. Club commodore Warren Price said: “We loan them out to other sailing clubs to encourage participation, as well as for our own members with disabilities. "They are ideal to give people of all ages an opportunity to enjoy sailing when otherwise they wouldn’t get the chance. "SCA approached the club with the offer of buying a dinghy for us and we were delighted.”

Scottish Care home residents take to the water for sailing challenge

Ranging in age from their late eighties to 99, a group of residents from the Gibson House care home in St Andrews took up the challenge of a sailing trip at Lochore Meadows. For many of those in the group, it was the first time they had gone sailing. Gibson staff member Peta Cunningham said the group included Ellen Scott, who went flying on her 90th birthday, and Ailie Gunn, who turned 99 on Monday. She said the trip was organised through Fife Sailability. The club was formed in June 2012 and is affiliated to RYA Sailability Scotland, which supplied the boats. The club is independent and, through membership fees, self-financing. Based at Lochore Meadows, which is a UK Sailability Centre of Excellence, there is a specially designed Challenger dinghy and an excellent core of volunteer instructors. People with almost any disability can be catered for, from the age of eight to 80 and beyond.