Itchenor member helps to raise money in BT Sport Relief Challenge
by Louisa Green 16 Mar 2016 12:49 GMT
16 March 2016
BT Sport Relief Challenge: Hell On High Seas © Hell On High Seas
Ian Walker, long time member of Itchenor Sailing Club, has been Skipper to a team of celebrities on a journey sailing from Belfast to London as part of the BT Sport Relief Challenge – Hell on High Seas. The challenge raised money for disadvantaged people, both in the UK and across the world's poorest communities.
Walker was responsible for a crew of six for the challenge, including The One Show host Alex Jones, TV presenters Angellica Bell, Ore Oduba and Suzi Perry and comedians Hal Cruttenden and Doon Mackichan.
Speaking about the challenge, Ian commented: "When the sea's rough, you're drenched to the core and you've barely slept, even the most mundane daily tasks can seem impossible."
"The biggest thing that keeps our morale high is when we hear how much money has been raised for such a good cause."
The team set off from Belfast Harbour Marina on Monday 7th March and made their way down the west coast of England battling gale force winds and heavy rain which very nearly capsized their 65 foot, Volvo Ocean 65. The conditions were so bad that the Falmouth coastguard broadcast a navigational warning of Gale force 10 winds on the Tuesday night. The announcement led Ian to make the decision to moor in Plymouth overnight, as sailing in such conditions with an inexperienced crew would be extremely dangerous. Viewers of The One Show were able to track the team's progress by tuning in for live updates each evening from 7pm.
The team reached London at 7pm on Friday 11th March for the big finale, completing their challenge in good time. The venture has been a huge success raising so far over £944,288 for charity and the donations are still rolling in.
To find out more please visit www.sportrelief.com/whats-going-on/hell-on-high-seas