An amazing adventure to raise funds for Parkinsons UK.

Our Managing Director, Patrick Kavanagh took part in Leg 1 – the Atlantic Trade Winds Leg, of the Clipper yacht race 2017/18. Bidding farewell to family (and dry land) from Liverpool’s Albert dock on the 20th August, Pat and the Liverpool 2018 ‘Pink’ team, travelled 6,400 miles to Punta Del Este, Uruguay on a journey of a lifetime.

Along his team’s sailing adventure they encountered, shoals of dolphins, sea birds and flying fish, which did raise a few laughs when one poor team member got slapped round the face from one…TWICE!

With this leg of the race crossing the Equator, a traditional line-crossing ceremony was held. This is where the sailors that have previous crossed the equator (the Shellbacks) initiate the first timers (the Pollywogs) in King Neptune’s court. This is done with a nice dollop of porridge, mixed with many unfavourable things, poured over their heads.

Pat says of his adventure: “It truly was the adventure of a lifetime.  Helming a 70ft Ocean Racing Yacht in 30 Knot winds at 3.00am in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, was amazing! What surprised me was the Skipper and Crew’s ability to work together and live together for 24 hours a day for 34 days, without even a cross word (almost). 

Sailing in adverse conditions really demonstrated what teamwork can achieve.  Looking after each other’s safety and wellbeing was paramount to the crew and no major Injuries or incidents occurred as a result.

I hope to carry forward some of these lessons in developing the safety and teamwork culture within JBDS in the coming months.

I would like to thank all fellow Directors, Colleagues, Clients, friends and family, in their support and the amazing generosity they have shown with the Fundraising. Thank You.”