Updated on Aug 19th 2011 at 9:11 AM from the JustGiving API

From the fastnet webpage: BLESMA Crew – Victors in Forces Challenge A crew of 14 sailors, nine of whom have lost at least one of their limbs whilst serving in the Armed Forces, successfully completed the Rolex Fastnet Race early this morning. The jubilant crew are currently lying 30th in their class (IRC 1) and the race is one of BLESMA's showpiece rehabilitation events of the year. BLESMA (British Limbless Ex-Service Men's Association) was formed in 1922. Sailing on Spirit of Juno, Ondeck's Farr 65 for the first time was double amputee, Alan Roberts: "I wanted to give myself a challenge, especially since the accident and losing both my legs. I like to set myself goals and I've achieved that today! The whole race was brilliant from start to finish. I'd never sailed before and both training for it and actually taking part was brilliant, really good. There was so much banter on board, typical military banter, jokes being cracked even when it was raining, soaking wet and cold. The jokes were flying round all day and night and it kept morale up so everyone stayed in good spirits. Now I've been introduced to sailing, I would definitely like to do more. Hopefully with BLESMA and then look at the bigger picture, maybe get myself on a Day Skipper course and then work my way up to watch leader." "We're really pleased to have won our challenge between the Forces boats - the other boats are still out at sea and may be for some time. In a way, it's sad that the race has finished as we've bonded really well, but even if this part of our voyage is over, I'm sure there will be more opportunities to meet up," continued Roberts.

Updated on Aug 18th 2011 at 8:05 AM from the JustGiving API

Finished at 0541hours this morning, thanks to everyone tracking us and donating

Updated on Aug 11th 2011 at 3:58 PM from the JustGiving API

I was lucky enough to join a Blesma crew to qualify for the fastnet race 2011. Every weekend we sail and race trained on the ondeck Farr65 Spirit of Juno. As we raced we built up miles that qualified us to compete in the Fastnet. We did this with a race to spare having had two weekends on the trot with force 7 to 8 winds, racing through the night in 3 hour shifts. The Fastnet Race starts on Sunday 14th August and you can follow our progress by tracker device via the Fastnet webpage. You can also race from the comfort of your own armchair with the virtual race at the same web page - try and beat us and stay dry at the same time! I know people are always asking for money so don't be obliged to donate if you can't afford to but please take the time to see what Blesma are all about.

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