Age 48
I have always loved sailing and have wanted to do something like this for many years, until now my work has always taken priority but at the end of last year when I lost a good sailing friend through cancer I realised that unless I made an effort my ambition would remain just that. I think the Jester challenge is a fantastic opportunity to complete an Atlantic crossing without the hype of some of the bigger events but with the support of other like minded people.

The Boat
I was very luck to find Vacuum which is a 27ft one off design by Blondie Hasler and built by Sunbird Marine. She was designed for this type of event. I think however that the famous man may have been a bit shorter then me. At 6ft5” I am going to have to make some alterations to the berth and fit a Pram cover over the hatch so at least I can stand upright in one place. My son Simon who is a boat builder will be helping with fitting out and I will be completing my 500 mile optional qualifying sail in April.

I am really looking forward to the event and hope that I can match the boats pedigree.