Skandia Cowes Week - update

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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

3 comments have been made

  • Louise
  • 9th August, 2008

I think I saw you all sail off yesterday out of Cowes… However, the whole week has been so FANTASTIC it feels really surreal and dream like!
An Amazing week in Cowes and great weather for your last couple of days, fireworks and red arrows! One thing, was really surprised at all these sailors drinking out of these “disposable” plastic glasses!!? - loads of them everywhere, quite literally all over the place!
Anyway, a great time had by all and very impressed with all the shops and pubs that have their own little “doggie Cafe’s” :0) x

  • Steve
  • 14th August, 2008

Hi Ellen, to raise £60,000 for such a good cause is great. It must be wonderful for the young people to go sailing and Looking at the site http://www.ellenmacarthurtrust.org clearly shows the trust is progressing well. Your an inspiration, best wishes Steve.

  • Mark Mason
  • 9th November, 2008

I know I know, Cowes week was months ago, but I would just like to thank you for makeing my sons day if not life. He has only been sailing for 2 years and in his first year was runner up in the hobbie nationals in Oman.
You met him by a tea kiosk after a photo shoot and he explained to you that he helped train the Omani team, who were in town at the time. You have inspired Sam to push further in his training and RYA courses. He managed to get on the Oman Ex40 but did not have the time to get on your ex BQ. He so much wants to get into crewing on the bigger boats and has so much enthusiasm to so, I would appreciate any guidance you could give me to be able to help him.
But back to my first point thank you for inspiring the youngsters of today and keeping them off the streets.
Mark

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This is the personal Blog of me, Ellen MacArthur. I will be posting regular updates and news on my life and passions…

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