MY JESTER CHALLENGE 2008 to the Azores and back 

by Mike Winter

For me the “Jester Challenge” is probably, due to my age 50 at time of the
event, the last chance for that great adventure of testing one self against
the elements and my own resolve and resourcefulness.

 

Of course this year things are a little different in that folk are sponsoring me

 with all funds going to MV Freedom the charity boat specialising in providing

scenic trips for the disabled that I now skipper.

The Jester challenge is a test of man and boat against the elements in the
true style of a Corinthian yachtsman in that the single handed sailor has to
rely on his own mental strength and fortitude on his own for about two
weeks out of sight of land facing all the elements and difficulties that the
sea can produce in a crossing of approximately 1200 miles each way.

My boat, Jacinta, designed in 1956 is not, as such, an “A” class ocean going
boat but is without doubt a capable sea going cruiser and more than able in
crossing the Atlantic so the test is can I match my boats capability.

I started sailing at age 14 completing RYA dinghy certificates (The Helmsman
Cert) and having joined the regular forces raced regularly represented my
corp. as a junior solider in dinghy races. I am a member of the Army Sailing
Association.

I have recently completed my “Coastal Skipper” practical.

The qualified miles in sailing to the Azores will qualify the practical
requirements of the “Yacht master Ocean” certificate and the complete
certificate will be gained with a further shore based course.

 

Jacinta is still well prepared and all the kinks have been ironed out following

the disappointing retirement form the 2006 challenge due to equipment failure.

Although a new main sail and cruising chute is still to be delivered.

I have funded from my own resources and will continue to do so the
preparation costs and of course the loss of income due from being away from
work, although this is not a great concern as my business will continue in
my absence.

The satellite phone is still installed on the boat so you can contact me on
008816214445867 as I cross the Atlantic.

I would like to again thank Bussels Chandlery for all the help in the preparation.
Also the lads at Clarks boatyard,GCOMM and Mailasail for their help.

A big thank you to Paul (Sparky) for all the help in fitting the electrics.

 

A picture of leaving 2006