Sailing with the Ellen MacArthur Trust

Last week was a first for me as I sailed the whole 4 day trip with the young people from the Ellen MacArthur Trust!
 
It was wonderful to be there from the moment everyone arrived, going through the team building work and hearing the giggles and amusement as we all began to do all sorts of challenges, some with blindfolds on!  
 
The young people were just fantastic, a mixed group from London and Northern Ireland. Extremely funny, quite entertaining and hugely inspirational!  
 
We did everything from catching mackerel to beach fires, from rib rides to the Needles and fish and chips & ice cream to football on the field!  
 
It was very different for me to be there for the whole trip. To see the change in confidence of the young people. To be there to play card games as the sun set, and to see the pride as they steered the yacht.  
 
The volunteers and other skippers were great, with a lovely mix of fun and learning. Talking to individuals is always something I find totally awe inspiring. If the young people wish to share their stories they can blow you away with their matter of fact way of speaking about their illness.     

They really are incredibly brave. You cannot help but be inspired by them.  

Ellen