About us

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is a national charity that takes young people aged 8-24 on sailing and outdoor adventures to inspire them to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer.

Mast Climb Challenge

We're incredibly proud to be the official charity partner of North Sails Cowes Week 2026. To mark this exciting partnership and celebrate 200 years of Cowes Week, we're inviting friends and supporters of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust to take part in the Mast Climb Challenge, a unique fundraising experience aboard Solent Hero.

The Challenge

Moored at Trinity Landing in the heart of Cowes Week, participants will climb to the top of Solent Hero's mast and take on a fundraising challenge like no other.

We are encouraging participants to raise as much as possible before and after the event. The extra challenge is that once at the top, they'll have 10 minutes to call friends, family and colleagues and raise as much money as possible. The goal is to reach a minimum of £200 before making their descent, a fitting tribute to the event's 200th anniversary.

To add to the excitement, we'll be running a friendly leaderboard throughout the week, so participants can see how they compare and maybe enjoy a little healthy competition to become the top fundraiser.

Why support?

Every pound raised will go directly towards helping young people rebuild their confidence after cancer, enabling the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust to continue providing life-changing opportunities for those who need them most.