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IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM THE TEAM
Our expedition now has a new urgent purpose. We will work with Pahar Trust to channel any extra funds we raise to the rebuild of schools affected by the current disaster.
In light of the devastating scenes of destruction and loss of life caused by the catastrophic floods and landslides across Nepal, we are considering how best to use some of the funds we raise to support communities specifically affected by the disaster. Along with peoples lives, homes and infrastructure, we understand that at least 18 schools have been completely destroyed by the floods. Future assistance will be essential as and when it is appropriate, given the sensitive nature of the situation.
At the same time, we do not want to turn our backs on the initial fundraising project: rebuilding the school in Gorkha, which was itself destroyed by the 2015 earthquake just over 10 years ago. If anything, these two appalling disasters in Nepal underline how vulnerable communities across the country remain. The current disaster also highlights dangers of climate change, indeed the lake we are heading to, Kajin Sara, was until recently, frozen over.
This remains an evolving situation, and understandably, the immediate needs are humanitarian, with specialist charities and relief organisations best placed to respond in the short term.
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At the end of September, Ben, Ed, Jamie and Joe will set off for Nepal on a mission: to attempt to set the Guinness World Record for the highest-altitude sail, at over 5,000 metres above sea level (photo attached of sail training in the boats at sea level).
In true British fashion, we couldn’t resist adding a touch of eccentricity by establishing the World’s Highest Sailing Club, why not !?
Setting aside the many variables that might come to mind—from altitude and ice conditions to the availability of wind—this adventure is about far more than a world record attempt.
Our real goal is to raise enough money to help rebuild a school, with Pahar Trust Nepal in Gorkha, a remote Himalayan region devastated by the 2015 earthquake. The school provides education for 270 children in a community where access to basic infrastructure is limited, but spirit and resilience are abundant.
Beyond the bricks and mortar, we also aim to assist funding for a wider educational program within the community to give the project further sustainability, long after the construction work is complete.
We’re incredibly grateful that The Clarkson Foundation ( www.theclarksonfoundation.com ) has pledged £50,000 in matched funding. This means that every pound you donate will be doubled, making your support go twice as far towards reaching our target.
Every donation goes directly to Pahar Trust Nepal to deliver the project. All expedition costs have been funded by the four of us, so your contribution is used solely to support the school and its students.
We’ll be sharing regular updates as we prepare for the expedition and, hopefully, celebrate a new world record. The Telegraph will also be documenting the expedition, providing independent coverage of the challenge.
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A little more about the charity
Rural communities in Nepal are faced with significant challenges to access quality education and health provision. The United Nations place these communities in the lowest band for Human Development. With over 1 million children impacted by the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, many thousands of children still do not have access to safe educational facilities.
Pahar Trust Nepal builds earthquake resilient education and health facilities in rural Nepal to improve opportunities for children, young people and their communities.