Sovereign Lighthouse Challenge 2018

Whilst training for the Surf Life Saving GB Masters competition due to take place in Cornwall on the 18th/19th I wanted a challenge to enhance motivation and encouragement to boost training and raise funds for both Eastbourne Voluntary Lifeguards and St Wilfrid’s Hospice. Hence, it was suggested to undertake an extreme challenge to paddle using a racing paddleboard to the Sovereign Lighthouse and back - something that has never been done before. Continuing training throughout the cold winter months has been a real challenge but training is going well and if you walk along the promenade at Eastbourne at the weekend you will have probably seen me, a mad man on a paddleboard.

I hope to this on 22nd July, although this will depend on the weather on the day. Paddling from EVLG clubhouse to the Sovereign Lighthouse and back, at a total of 14 miles (22.5 km) is expected to take 4 hours. The safety boat cover for the challenge will be provided by members of the Eastbourne Voluntary Lifeguards. Some of the club members have also decided to join the challenge to help raise funds using racing ski’s, lifeguard canoe and others swimming part of the route.

Since July 2017 my mother has been unwell with cancer resulting in a lot of trips to the hospital and treatment. I continued my training throughout this difficult time but Mum was still encouraging and supporting my training and the Eastbourne Voluntary Lifeguards. Mum enjoyed knitting and made bobble hats in the club colours for the team to wear at competitions and events. Sadly my Mum passed away on 9th January 2018 in St Wilfrid‘s Hospice. The care and support Mum and the whole family received from all the staff was outstanding.

Therefore, the funds I raise will be split between Eastbourne Voluntary Lifeguards and St Wilfrid’s Hospice, Eastbourne, both of which organisations that heavily rely on the support of the local community to help continue the amazing work they do. St Wilfrid’s Hospice provides specialist care to individuals with progressive and life limiting illnesses and their families and aim to change people’s preconceptions about end of life care. Eastbourne Voluntary Lifeguards has been training young lifesavers and promoting water safety within the local community for over 65 years. The club offers training and qualifications to develop essential, lifelong personal survival skills, water based rescue skills and first aid skills, as well as actively taking part in a range of lifesaving competitions for indiviuals of all ages.

Training is going well and I’m looking forward to the 22nd July. Any donations will be greatly appreciated.