Wednesday, August 17, 2011

British Forces Racing Fastnet

(Cowes, IOW, England)- The RAF bring leadership and team spirit to the water racing their J/109 RED ARROW and flying the flag for the Royal Air Force Sailing Association. Skipper, Flight Lieutenant Ryan Harris is a Royal Air Force helicopter pilot and Search & Rescue instructor based at RAF Valley, Anglesey, North Wales. RED ARROW is crewed by serving and ex-serving members of the RAF, from a mixture of ranks, trades and different air bases.
"Sailing is positively encouraged in the RAF. It is seen as a vehicle to take Service Personnel out of their normal environment and stretch them. Teamwork, communication, leadership and physical fitness are all elements that can be brought out in sailing. The RAF team wants to test itself against top sailors and this year we have gained experience to complete the mileage required to enter the Fastnet Race. Project management as well as sailing ability have all been improved from taking part in this campaign", says Flight Lieutenant Ryan Harris.

Said a fellow UK Armed Forces colleague, "Ocean racing is firmly part of our ethos - the requirement for an adventurous spirit combined with the need for individuals to work as a team, in difficult and potentially dangerous conditions, when cold, wet and tired, far from the easy option of outside assistance."  For more Rolex Fastnet Race sailing information