Cowes Week - Ellen MacArthur

It’s been a busy week so far during Skandia Cowes Week for us at OC, and it’s not yet over! We have been racing the Extreme 40’s for the past three mornings, out on a course which takes us out to the west towards Gurnard. These boats never cease to amaze me – or the 5th man, different guests whom we have on board for the morning races. The team onboard of Walshy (Andrew Walsh), Ed (Barney) and Oli (Dickens) are great, and not only do we get out there and race, but we also have a laugh at the same time.

In the evenings, there have been all manner of events, the ‘Ellen MacArthur Trust Ball’ on Monday night being the most incredible for me - a huge, huge thanks to everyone who helped us raise £60,000 to take even more young people sailing! - from our arrival at Osborne House in a horse and carriage, to the amazing conversation we had on stage with Vicky Stokes. Vicky first came sailing with the Trust in 2007 and returned this year as a volunteer. She was the real star of the evening!Before dinner the Red Devils impressed us all by descending from the skies on to the lawns in front of Osborne House. At the dinner itself, we made the important announcement that next year we will be doing a Round Britain “Voyage of Discovery” for next year, supported by Skandia. I’m really excited about this event, the sailing will be fantastic, but the visits by the young people to the hospitals they were treated at on the way will be really amazing. You will be able to find out more information on the Trust website: www.ellenmacarthurtrust.org Anyway, must dash as I’m working away at home for just a few minutes before heading out again on the Extreme 40.

Bring it on! ellen