On 9 August, the crew of Polar Bear will take on one of the most physically and mentally demanding yachting challenges in the world: the 2009 Rolex Fastnet Race.

Our aim is to succeed in completing this classic 608 mile offshore yacht race. Starting from Cowes in the Solent sailing west along the south coast, out into the Atlantic round the Fastnet rock off thesouth west tip of Ireland and back to Plymouth, the Fastnet is not for the faint-hearted!

We at Foretel & People First Group, have brought together the vessel, crew, and two major ambitions: to have a thumping good race, and to raise money for two charities close to our hearts.

The proceeds raised from this page will be used to support Earthwatch.

Earthwatch is an international environmental charity which supports scientific research around the world. Through the Fastnet Challenge we have chosen to support Earthwatch's Oceans Appeal which will fund projects such as Dr Peter Stevick's dolphin research in Scotland.

Earthwatch scientist, Stevick, and his team are working in Scotland to assess the distribution, abundance and habitat preference of whales, dolphins and porpoises in this, one of Europe’s most important habitats for marine life. Many of the species that Dr Stevick’s team are studying are international conservation priorities. Understanding their distribution is vital for many aspects of conservation, such as designing Marine Protected Areas.

Wish us luck and thank you for your support!

P.S. If you are a UK tax payer, don't forget to check the Gift Aid box. This means that Earthwatch can claim an extra 28p on every £ from HMRC without it costing you a penny!