Setting Sail for a Cause: Worthing Sailing Club's Isle of Wight Adventure with Tall Ships Youth Trust 2024
Published 00:00 on 16 Mar 2024
A weekend filled with windswept sails, salty air, and a spirit of camaraderie unfolded as 13 members of the Worthing Sailing Club embarked on a memorable journey around the Isle of Wight. Led by the impressive skipper Amy (her third year with the WSC voyage, previously as mate) and her team, the crew set their sights not only on the thrill of the race but also on supporting a noble cause the Tall Ships Youth Trust.
Kicking off the adventure, the crew boarded Challenger 3 at Portsmouth, bracing themselves for the training ahead on the welcoming waters of the Solent. With winds gusting up to 30 knots, Amy's guidance and expertise provided a steady hand, turning the rough seas into valuable learning opportunities for all aboard.
Race day dawned with light winds, presenting a new set of challenges for the crew. With the skipper at the helm, they motored from Cowes to start the race at the Needles with a La Mans start and finished at Bembridge lifeboat station. At the horn, the Yankee (the big jib) was hoisted only to get it snagged on the deck fitting consequently putting a rip in the leech of the sail - losing valuable speed. Time was made up but not enough to secure first place, but it did little to dampen the crew's spirits as Challenger 3 glided (slowly) across the finish line securing an impressive 3rd position (out of 3!).
The true victory lay not in the accolades but in the impact made for a worthy cause as the Worthing Sailing Club raised a remarkable £2,105.00 for the Tall Ships Youth Trust, ensuring that underprivileged young adults will have the opportunity to embark on life-changing voyages.
At the gala dinner that followed, Bob Hewitt, the driving force behind Team Worthing for the third consecutive year, was recognised for his outstanding efforts in organising the event and rallying support for the charity.
For those inspired to join in the cause and support future voyages, there's still an opportunity to contribute to the fundraiser here.
Every donation, no matter the size, will help sponsor transformative experiences for young adults in need, continuing the legacy of adventure and compassion set forth by the charity.
Dates have already been set for next year's challenge and a day sail may be organised in early Autumn.