Challenge Regatta for 'Faking It', 13 July 2002

When I heard that Challenge Business were looking for crew to take part in a Challenge Regatta, I jumped at the opportunity to get involved and spend a day out racing the yachts in the Solent. Today I was sailing on Challenge Business 46, Norwich Union, skippered by James Allen with mate John Farndell, and my team included crew volunteers Fliss, Jeff, Patrick, Diana, Ian, Gavin, Rob, Hugh, Graham, Janene, and Bob.

As we boarded the yacht we noticed that a film crew were unloading camera equipment from several vans. Word was going around that someone on one of the yachts was the subject of the Channel 4 television programme 'Faking It'. All the yachts were to have camera and sound men on board, with additional film crew following the race from several motorboats and even a helicopter!

After the safety briefing the yacht motored out to the familiar waters of the Solent and we picked our positions on deck for the race. The sails were soon hoisted and after a little tacking and gybing practice, it was time to make our way to the start line.

The race was 'around the cans' (rounding a series of specified markers/buoys) and having made a good start over the line, we were quickly away and jostling for the lead with Quadstone and TeamSpirit. A large ship crossed behind us causing the fleet to separate, leaving TeamSpirit and the other yachts further behind. Now Quadstone and Norwich Union were neck and neck, although the winds were light and Quadstone kept finding the extra power to remain in the lead.

The film crew added much excitement to the race, especially with their motorboats speeding about the yachts and the helicopter circling and swooping in. Soon enough the finishing line was approaching with Quadstone just 20 seconds ahead, rejoicing their victory. Pleased with our close second place, we returned to Ocean Village for the award ceremony and champagne.

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Continuation
Training
February 2002

Induction Training December 2001

Race Finish
June 2001