The Set Sail Trust is delighted to announce a charity sailing event called the Ultimate Challenge. June 2011 will see the Ultimate Challenge take place between Poole and Guernsey, with teams sailing two Bristol Pilot Cutters, classic 45ft wooden hulled ships.
Up to 8 people can take part in the challenge, crewing a ship with a professional Skipper and Mate, starting in Poole on the weekend of 11/12 June. It promises to be an exciting journey on board replica 18th century ships, with modern cabins and safety equipment. As this is a fund-raising initiative to support local disadvantaged children, places on board the ships cost £400 per person. Berths for this memorable challenge are strictly limited. People can apply on an individual basis or form a crew made up of colleagues, family and friends.
Sponsorship is encouraged also. All proceeds raised during this year’s Pilot Cutters week will be in support of the Guernsey Sailing Trust’s Windsurfing Project that aims to provide the opportunity for local teenagers to learn this sport.
Trustee Andreas Tautscher said “Islanders can take part in this charity sailing challenge and make a real difference by helping raise funds to allow children the opportunity to learn to windsurf. The Ultimate Challenge will be a fantastic life experience and an amazing sailing adventure for any one taking part”.
On Saturday 11th June, teams will travel by Condor Ferries, overnight in Poole, then set sail across the English Channel from Poole at 0800 hours. Sunday, 12th June will see the ships arrive at approximately 2300 hours in Guernsey harbour.
Crew members will be provided with full safety briefings and will work under the supervision/direction of the Skipper as a team, to race the other ship. No previous sailing experience is required to make the voyage, although seasoned sailors are most welcome.
The ships’ arrival starts this year’s Pilot Cutters week.
Anyone wanting to join the Ultimate Challenge should email sh@long-port.com
Find out more about the Set Sail Trust ‘Ultimate Challenge’ here.
The ships Merlin and Polly Agatha are 45ft and 60ft with bowsprit respectively. The latest marine electronics and safety equipment have been cleverly integrated into each boat using traditional boatbuilding techniques and materials. The larch hulls and decks sit on English oak frames made from sustainable and renewable resources. They are safe, solid and capable of sailing anywhere, in any conditions. Copies of the survey reports, licences, insurance, and waivers in respect of these vessels are held on file by the Set Sail Trust and the Guernsey Harbour Authority.
The Set Sail Trust exists in Guernsey to support underprivileged members of the community who wish to join nautically themed activities. Learning about and taking part in nautical activities is a hugely rewarding experience. Participants can learn valuable skills that not only help them in their chosen pursuit but in everyday life. As these activities can be expensive, they are not easily available to all sectors of society.
Through structured funding programmes, the Set Sail Trust aims to increase participation by those who might normally be excluded for financial reasons, particularly through schools and clubs. Land-based sports and activities are well supported in Guernsey. The Trust would like to see equally high levels of support and participation for marine-based activities. To achieve this, schools and clubs need support.
There are financial constraints to be overcome and logistical issues to be addressed. The Set Sail Trust can help with these and help develop programmes that get young people involved in extremely rewarding pastimes.
The Trust also seeks to support and raise awareness of Guernsey’s nautical history, as Guernsey has a rich and varied nautical heritage and yet much of it is not widely appreciated.
Trustees include International Asset Monitor, Long Port, Deutsche Bank and The Partnership.
For further comment or information please contact The Partnership on 01481 700070.
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