Hi Everyone,
I've had a really exciting last week which has been pretty packed I have to admit!
I've decided to move this blog over to another 'name'. www.mikeperham.blogspot.com
This has been done as it's a lot simpler and easier to remember, I don't know why I didn't do this in the first place! Also more importantly, from this site, I will be posting all my blogs for my next big adventure. There will be a big announcement coming in little over a week so watch this space!
See you all on, www.mikeperham.blogspot.com
Thanks,
Mike
Thursday, 15 July 2010
Saturday, 3 July 2010
Round the Island Race
Hi all,
Sorry about the silence recently, I’ve been meaning to do this blog for a while now.
The Round the Island race was brilliant fun. I was racing on the Prostate UK cancer boat representing one of the four charity boats. It was brilliant because it was just like a race within a race. I wasn’t too concerned about our overall result. I just wanted to get a result within the charity boats. It was a very exciting race, there is simply none other like it in the world. To head out to the start line soon after 5am and see literally hundreds of yachts filling the Solent is quite a sight I have to admit.
It was a downwind first leg and we got a cracking start accelerating across the line with the spinnaker up. I was happy to see we had an early lead on the other charity boats which we held nicely up until the needles. At this point we had a bit trouble dropping the spinnaker and unfortunately lost around 300m (a lot in racing terms!). Another charity boat caught us up and they then went off inshore to take that tactical route. We stayed offshore as did the other two charity boats.
At the south of the island where all the boats rounded the point (St Catherine's light house - a great reference point for positions) we saw that our offshore route wasn’t as favourable as the inshore one and the Macmillan cancer support boat took the lead.
We were still in second place maintaining a healthy distance over the other two boats and I was happy with our tactics as we came up to the Bembridge Ledge on the east of the island. The Ellen Macarthur Trust boat at this point had made up a good bit of ground and were trailing us by around 150m.
They were able to point higher (brand new sails I’ll add!) and so I was a little worried tactically as they would no doubt try to come up over us and nick our wind and take the lead. The whole team onboard our boat worked really hard with the trimming and we were able to defend our position very nicely all the way to the finish line. I was really chuffed how well everyone worked together onboard and it definitely paid off as we came back in a well earned second place.
The racing was great fun with just the right blend of competitiveness. We didn’t ding anyone and had very few mishaps so I was a very happy Mike at the end of the day. Great racing from all the charity challenge boats too!
Since the race I have been doing a few talks to some schools as part of our VocaLink Live the Dream school programme and I have also been working a bit towards my next adventure.. (can’t tell you what that is yet, but hope to be able to announce something in a couple of weeks!).
Excitingly I’m heading out to Australia at the end of the month to speak at the Sydney Boat Show which I’m really excited about. It’s going to be a fantastic show with lots of exciting attractions!
This next coming week I’m doing a couple more school visits and excitingly I’m also flying out to the Isle of Man courtesy of Canada Life International to speak at a charity event where we are raising money for Project 21. See www.project21iom.com for more info on who they are.
Don McIntyre is flying into the UK soon and it will be fantastic to catch up with him and hear all about the Talisker Bounty Boat Expedition. One of the most important aims of the expedition was to raise money for the Sheffield Institute Foundation and the guys on the trip certainly worked seriously hard doing so! Please keep donating! See www.taliskerbountyboat.com for more info.
Mike
Sorry about the silence recently, I’ve been meaning to do this blog for a while now.
The Round the Island race was brilliant fun. I was racing on the Prostate UK cancer boat representing one of the four charity boats. It was brilliant because it was just like a race within a race. I wasn’t too concerned about our overall result. I just wanted to get a result within the charity boats. It was a very exciting race, there is simply none other like it in the world. To head out to the start line soon after 5am and see literally hundreds of yachts filling the Solent is quite a sight I have to admit.
It was a downwind first leg and we got a cracking start accelerating across the line with the spinnaker up. I was happy to see we had an early lead on the other charity boats which we held nicely up until the needles. At this point we had a bit trouble dropping the spinnaker and unfortunately lost around 300m (a lot in racing terms!). Another charity boat caught us up and they then went off inshore to take that tactical route. We stayed offshore as did the other two charity boats.
At the south of the island where all the boats rounded the point (St Catherine's light house - a great reference point for positions) we saw that our offshore route wasn’t as favourable as the inshore one and the Macmillan cancer support boat took the lead.
We were still in second place maintaining a healthy distance over the other two boats and I was happy with our tactics as we came up to the Bembridge Ledge on the east of the island. The Ellen Macarthur Trust boat at this point had made up a good bit of ground and were trailing us by around 150m.
They were able to point higher (brand new sails I’ll add!) and so I was a little worried tactically as they would no doubt try to come up over us and nick our wind and take the lead. The whole team onboard our boat worked really hard with the trimming and we were able to defend our position very nicely all the way to the finish line. I was really chuffed how well everyone worked together onboard and it definitely paid off as we came back in a well earned second place.
The racing was great fun with just the right blend of competitiveness. We didn’t ding anyone and had very few mishaps so I was a very happy Mike at the end of the day. Great racing from all the charity challenge boats too!
Since the race I have been doing a few talks to some schools as part of our VocaLink Live the Dream school programme and I have also been working a bit towards my next adventure.. (can’t tell you what that is yet, but hope to be able to announce something in a couple of weeks!).
Excitingly I’m heading out to Australia at the end of the month to speak at the Sydney Boat Show which I’m really excited about. It’s going to be a fantastic show with lots of exciting attractions!
This next coming week I’m doing a couple more school visits and excitingly I’m also flying out to the Isle of Man courtesy of Canada Life International to speak at a charity event where we are raising money for Project 21. See www.project21iom.com for more info on who they are.
Don McIntyre is flying into the UK soon and it will be fantastic to catch up with him and hear all about the Talisker Bounty Boat Expedition. One of the most important aims of the expedition was to raise money for the Sheffield Institute Foundation and the guys on the trip certainly worked seriously hard doing so! Please keep donating! See www.taliskerbountyboat.com for more info.
Mike
Thursday, 17 June 2010
Back home
Hi all,
I’m back home now in the UK after what was a seriously fun trip out to Australia. I met some amazing people and it was really great to stay with Jess’s family. Thanks guys!
First and foremost I want to say congrats to the guys who have just completed the Talisker Bounty Boat expedition. They arrived in Kupang not so long ago and it was great to see some photos of an extremely elated crew. See taliskerbountyboat.com for more details.
It’s good be be home again after my time out in Aus and I’ve been busy planning my next few weeks. I’m doing a few talks here and there, a couple of school visits, I’m racing in the Round the Island race on Saturday raising money for Prostate UK and just in general having lots of fun!
Need to get packed for heading down to Cowes tomorrow morning.
Mike
I’m back home now in the UK after what was a seriously fun trip out to Australia. I met some amazing people and it was really great to stay with Jess’s family. Thanks guys!
First and foremost I want to say congrats to the guys who have just completed the Talisker Bounty Boat expedition. They arrived in Kupang not so long ago and it was great to see some photos of an extremely elated crew. See taliskerbountyboat.com for more details.
It’s good be be home again after my time out in Aus and I’ve been busy planning my next few weeks. I’m doing a few talks here and there, a couple of school visits, I’m racing in the Round the Island race on Saturday raising money for Prostate UK and just in general having lots of fun!
Need to get packed for heading down to Cowes tomorrow morning.
Mike
Friday, 11 June 2010
Thinking of Abby
Yesterday when we heard that Abby Sunderland's EPIRBs had been activated and her team were unable to contact her, we were extremely concerned for her and her family.
This morning we were very relieved to hear that a spotter plane had been mobilised, had located and spoken with Abby.
We understand she has been dismasted and a fishing boat is on it's way to meet with her.
We're all hugely disappointed for her but she has proved to be of very strong character and very capable. Sailing around the world as we all know is a huge undertaking at any age and the chances of being dismasted in bad weather are relatively high.
Our thoughts continue to be with her and her family. We look forward to hearing when they are reunited.
Mike, Fiona, Peter and Heather
This morning we were very relieved to hear that a spotter plane had been mobilised, had located and spoken with Abby.
We understand she has been dismasted and a fishing boat is on it's way to meet with her.
We're all hugely disappointed for her but she has proved to be of very strong character and very capable. Sailing around the world as we all know is a huge undertaking at any age and the chances of being dismasted in bad weather are relatively high.
Our thoughts continue to be with her and her family. We look forward to hearing when they are reunited.
Mike, Fiona, Peter and Heather
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
Good times
Hi all,
I’m currently writing this off Ella’s Pink Lady. We’re sailing up the Aussie coast up from Sydney to Mooloolaba just north of Brisbane and it’s been a pretty hilarious journey so far without a doubt.
Have also had time to reflect on what a great time I had in Sydney. To say I was well looked after would be a complete understatement. So, to anyone I met and if you are reading this… THANKS.
We pulled in to a lovely little port on the coast and spent a night there. Then last night we sailed through the night to make some better progress up the coast.
It’s been fantastic to get out to sea again and although I did feel a little sea sick on our first night out from Sydney I’ve got my sea legs now which is really great as my appetite is back too! I always like to be well fed onboard and I’ve been pretty impressed with Jess’s cooking I have to admit.
The wind is starting to die off now which is a little frustrating but I’m enjoying being up in a little warmer climes.
I'm really looking forward to arriving in Mooloolaba on Sunday
Mike
I’m currently writing this off Ella’s Pink Lady. We’re sailing up the Aussie coast up from Sydney to Mooloolaba just north of Brisbane and it’s been a pretty hilarious journey so far without a doubt.
Have also had time to reflect on what a great time I had in Sydney. To say I was well looked after would be a complete understatement. So, to anyone I met and if you are reading this… THANKS.
We pulled in to a lovely little port on the coast and spent a night there. Then last night we sailed through the night to make some better progress up the coast.
It’s been fantastic to get out to sea again and although I did feel a little sea sick on our first night out from Sydney I’ve got my sea legs now which is really great as my appetite is back too! I always like to be well fed onboard and I’ve been pretty impressed with Jess’s cooking I have to admit.
The wind is starting to die off now which is a little frustrating but I’m enjoying being up in a little warmer climes.
I'm really looking forward to arriving in Mooloolaba on Sunday
Mike
Monday, 31 May 2010
Sydney to Mooloolaba
Mike is now sailing up the Australian coast to Mooloolaba with Jessica Watson on board Ella's Pink Lady. They sailed out of Sydney under cover of darkness with a third unidentified sailor aboard to share the workload...well that's what the papers are saying.
They will stop a couple of times along the way to say thank you to people who have helped Jess.
Mike has had an amazing time in Sydney and been made so very welcome he says it would be a great place to live.
Apologies for not keeping everyone in tune with what Mike has been doing...He says there has been no internet connection where he has been staying...and I checked his personal hotmail which has also been pretty dormant...so it must be true! ...but still a weak excuse.
Ella's Pink Lady is planned to arrive in Mooloolaba next Sunday for a scaled down Sydney reception, then Mike will fly home a week later as he will be sailing on the ProstateUK Cancer entry in the Round the Island Race which he is really looking forward to...and I would also take part if anyone has a spare place?
Peter
They will stop a couple of times along the way to say thank you to people who have helped Jess.
Mike has had an amazing time in Sydney and been made so very welcome he says it would be a great place to live.
Apologies for not keeping everyone in tune with what Mike has been doing...He says there has been no internet connection where he has been staying...and I checked his personal hotmail which has also been pretty dormant...so it must be true! ...but still a weak excuse.
Ella's Pink Lady is planned to arrive in Mooloolaba next Sunday for a scaled down Sydney reception, then Mike will fly home a week later as he will be sailing on the ProstateUK Cancer entry in the Round the Island Race which he is really looking forward to...and I would also take part if anyone has a spare place?
Peter
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Fun in Australia
Hi All,
It's been crazily fun here in Sydney over the last couple of weeks. I flew out a few days before Jessica Watson's arrival to get used to the jet lag and to also do a full run through of Jessica's arrival on the water with the guys co-ordinating it all. Jesse Martin (previous youngest person to sail single-handed around the world) and I had been given the fun task of helming Ella's Pink Lady from the Sydney Heads all the way up the Opera House, which was a pretty exciting prospect. We were also reporting live for Channel 10 and One HD right off Jessica's yacht which was certainly going to be a laugh.
The day before Jessica arrived, everything in Sydney was really hotting up. Signs were put up all over the city telling everyone to expect a major 'class 1' event on Saturday. The city was really welcoming Jessica home! The news was packed with items about Jessica too.
I met up with Jesse Martin outside his hotel in Manly on the morning of Jessica's arrival and we walked down to the ferry to grab one over to Circular Quay in the heart of Sydney. After arriving and picking up a bite to eat, we were briefed about our role in the reporting and then we headed out in a chase boat with a full camera crew to go and find Jess. And she was late! Jess crossed the line two hours after her 'scheduled arrival time' but I wasn't surprised in the slightest. I think it's somewhat a tradition for solo sailors to be late.
The flotilla around Jessica was totally huge with reports of up to 1500 boats in the area which is pretty mad. The buzz in the flotilla was amazing though and I sure couldn't take the grin off my face. I was very lucky to be on one of the official chase boats as we were allowed inside her 'official cordon'. With all the spectator boats, there were about 8 police boats marking off the area around her so that no spectators boats could come close enough to risk a collision. Jesse Martin and I then jumped into a rib and we motored over to Jessica and boarded Ella's Pink Lady to help Jessica guide her up the harbour with such a huge armada of boats around her. It was fantastic to jump aboard and hand Jessica some FRESH FOOD! She immediately found the fresh cream!
We motored up the harbour, did a load of live crosses off the boat on TV and about half an hour later, we safely berthed at the Sydney Opera House. Jessica was greeted by thousands of cheering fans on the shore. The atmosphere was just so electric it sent shivers up my spine. Jessica jumped off into the waiting arms of her parents and family and it was fantastic to see them all reunited again. Jesse Martin and I then finished berthing Ella's Pink Lady and then followed Jessica up the pink carpet into the area right in front of the stage reserved for her close family and friends. Her speech was pretty awesome and I was pretty darn proud of her.
Jessica was then whisked off to her press conference and after that was finished Jesse Martin and I sailed Ella's Pink Lady around to the Maritime Museum where she was due to be quarantined. We later caught up with Jessica at a small but brilliant get together at a hotel in Manly where all her close family and team were. Amazingly, there was Jesse Martin, David Dicks, Brian Caldwell, and Jon Sanders there too. Six people who had sailed solo around the world before in the same room and four of us who had once been the 'youngest'. It was brilliant to meet these guys and we all had a great laugh together.
Since Jessica arrived back it's been a brilliantly fun week. I've been surfing with Layne Beachley (7 times world champion), diving with sharks, helicopter flying, bridge climbing, and even spent a bit of time out on the water but to name a few of the things that I've been up too. It's been non stop fun here in Manly.
Jess, I, and a couple of others are going to sail Ella's Pink Lady up the coast next week which should be good fun and I'm looking forward to getting into some warmer climes.
Mike
It's been crazily fun here in Sydney over the last couple of weeks. I flew out a few days before Jessica Watson's arrival to get used to the jet lag and to also do a full run through of Jessica's arrival on the water with the guys co-ordinating it all. Jesse Martin (previous youngest person to sail single-handed around the world) and I had been given the fun task of helming Ella's Pink Lady from the Sydney Heads all the way up the Opera House, which was a pretty exciting prospect. We were also reporting live for Channel 10 and One HD right off Jessica's yacht which was certainly going to be a laugh.
The day before Jessica arrived, everything in Sydney was really hotting up. Signs were put up all over the city telling everyone to expect a major 'class 1' event on Saturday. The city was really welcoming Jessica home! The news was packed with items about Jessica too.
I met up with Jesse Martin outside his hotel in Manly on the morning of Jessica's arrival and we walked down to the ferry to grab one over to Circular Quay in the heart of Sydney. After arriving and picking up a bite to eat, we were briefed about our role in the reporting and then we headed out in a chase boat with a full camera crew to go and find Jess. And she was late! Jess crossed the line two hours after her 'scheduled arrival time' but I wasn't surprised in the slightest. I think it's somewhat a tradition for solo sailors to be late.
The flotilla around Jessica was totally huge with reports of up to 1500 boats in the area which is pretty mad. The buzz in the flotilla was amazing though and I sure couldn't take the grin off my face. I was very lucky to be on one of the official chase boats as we were allowed inside her 'official cordon'. With all the spectator boats, there were about 8 police boats marking off the area around her so that no spectators boats could come close enough to risk a collision. Jesse Martin and I then jumped into a rib and we motored over to Jessica and boarded Ella's Pink Lady to help Jessica guide her up the harbour with such a huge armada of boats around her. It was fantastic to jump aboard and hand Jessica some FRESH FOOD! She immediately found the fresh cream!
We motored up the harbour, did a load of live crosses off the boat on TV and about half an hour later, we safely berthed at the Sydney Opera House. Jessica was greeted by thousands of cheering fans on the shore. The atmosphere was just so electric it sent shivers up my spine. Jessica jumped off into the waiting arms of her parents and family and it was fantastic to see them all reunited again. Jesse Martin and I then finished berthing Ella's Pink Lady and then followed Jessica up the pink carpet into the area right in front of the stage reserved for her close family and friends. Her speech was pretty awesome and I was pretty darn proud of her.
Jessica was then whisked off to her press conference and after that was finished Jesse Martin and I sailed Ella's Pink Lady around to the Maritime Museum where she was due to be quarantined. We later caught up with Jessica at a small but brilliant get together at a hotel in Manly where all her close family and team were. Amazingly, there was Jesse Martin, David Dicks, Brian Caldwell, and Jon Sanders there too. Six people who had sailed solo around the world before in the same room and four of us who had once been the 'youngest'. It was brilliant to meet these guys and we all had a great laugh together.
Since Jessica arrived back it's been a brilliantly fun week. I've been surfing with Layne Beachley (7 times world champion), diving with sharks, helicopter flying, bridge climbing, and even spent a bit of time out on the water but to name a few of the things that I've been up too. It's been non stop fun here in Manly.
Jess, I, and a couple of others are going to sail Ella's Pink Lady up the coast next week which should be good fun and I'm looking forward to getting into some warmer climes.
Mike
Saturday, 15 May 2010
To Jesse - Heartfelt congratulations
It would be very easy to just say congrats but I don’t think that really is enough to be honest. I’m writing this from my warm, dry, and comfortable apartment in Sydney. The fridge downstairs is full, the toilet works and I have a whole nights sleep ahead of me. Everything you haven’t had for over 200 days. Welcome back home and relish it!
I met you just over a year ago when you had just got hold of Ella’s Pink Lady from Don McIntyre and it was a pleasure to fly up from Tasmania whilst on my own world trip and meet you up in Mooloolaba.
I was struck when I first met you quite simply by your attitude and how passionate you were about your trip. I’ve always thought that was your best attribute, as with enough passion I believe anything is possible.
It was fantastic to really get to know you then and chat about all the different aspects of what was to come ahead; from the loneliness, to the food, to the way the media can act. I remember vividly how much your eyes opened as we spoke about the southern ocean and just how much fun it is down there!
It’s been really great fun speaking on the phone to you whilst you’ve been out there and it’s always brought a smile to my face hearing about what’s happening out on the ocean. You brought back so many memories of the time I spent out there.
Over the last year, it has been an absolute pleasure to be in the thick of things communicating regularly with yourself, your family and your team and really living the adventure with you. It’s been so much fun to be a part of it all.
Not many people will ever come close to understanding just how much of an accomplishment yours is, and I really do offer my heartfelt congratulations.
Best wishes,
Mike
I met you just over a year ago when you had just got hold of Ella’s Pink Lady from Don McIntyre and it was a pleasure to fly up from Tasmania whilst on my own world trip and meet you up in Mooloolaba.
I was struck when I first met you quite simply by your attitude and how passionate you were about your trip. I’ve always thought that was your best attribute, as with enough passion I believe anything is possible.
It was fantastic to really get to know you then and chat about all the different aspects of what was to come ahead; from the loneliness, to the food, to the way the media can act. I remember vividly how much your eyes opened as we spoke about the southern ocean and just how much fun it is down there!
It’s been really great fun speaking on the phone to you whilst you’ve been out there and it’s always brought a smile to my face hearing about what’s happening out on the ocean. You brought back so many memories of the time I spent out there.
Over the last year, it has been an absolute pleasure to be in the thick of things communicating regularly with yourself, your family and your team and really living the adventure with you. It’s been so much fun to be a part of it all.
Not many people will ever come close to understanding just how much of an accomplishment yours is, and I really do offer my heartfelt congratulations.
Best wishes,
Mike
Monday, 10 May 2010
Off to meet Jess
Hi all,
Excitingly, I'm jumping on a plane on tuesday to fly out to Australia
to see Jessica Watson return home into Sydney. To say I'm excited
about this would definitely be a understatement. Jesse will have been
away from home for over 200 days on her own which is a pretty darn
long time and it's going to be great fun to be in the thick of things
in Sydney.
Today I went and did a talk to a group of scouts who are now hoping to
raise funds to go to an international jamboree. It was great fun
talking to them and I really hope that their fundraising goes well.
Yesterday I did a small book signing at a local Waterstones book shop
in St Albans which was really nice as I was able to chat to some of
the people there and share my story.
When I get back from Australia I'll tell you all about it.
Mike
Excitingly, I'm jumping on a plane on tuesday to fly out to Australia
to see Jessica Watson return home into Sydney. To say I'm excited
about this would definitely be a understatement. Jesse will have been
away from home for over 200 days on her own which is a pretty darn
long time and it's going to be great fun to be in the thick of things
in Sydney.
Today I went and did a talk to a group of scouts who are now hoping to
raise funds to go to an international jamboree. It was great fun
talking to them and I really hope that their fundraising goes well.
Yesterday I did a small book signing at a local Waterstones book shop
in St Albans which was really nice as I was able to chat to some of
the people there and share my story.
When I get back from Australia I'll tell you all about it.
Mike
Monday, 26 April 2010
The parents came home
Hi all,
My week of no parents ended unfortunately when they somehow got the
train all the way home from Italy thanks to the good old volcano
popping up in iceland. It's good to have them back though as the house
is now back to it's usual state.
I was very lucky to be invited on board the TS Jack Petchey for a sail
down the Thames with a group of cadets from all the 10 cadet
organisations out there last week which was great fun! It was great to
meet Jack himself and we had a good chat about all sorts of random
things which was a laugh. It is a real honour to be working with an
organisation such as the Jack Petchey Foundation and it's fantastic to
see that though the hard work they're doing loads of young people are
being inspired to go that extra step.
I've been cracking on and still catching up with loads of college work
recently which I'm pleased to see is really progressing nicely. Also
what I'm totally dead chuffed about is how hot it is these days, it
feels like summer and I'm totally and madly excited about it! I was
out cutting the lawn this morning and it was brilliant to be able to
do so in bright sunshine and just a t-shirt.
I had a meeting with a large production company this week to talk
about some of my other future ideas which was really interesting and
we'll be seeing where that leads us...
I've been eagerly following everything happening with the Talisker
BountyBoat Expedition and I'm very excited for the guys out there who
are about to set off on the 28th. I'm a little nervous for them of
course, but gee, I really really wish I could be there participating
too! Just a shame that I fell ill at the time that I did. Good luck to
you guys, and I know you'll be having the adventure of a lifetime!
Mike
My week of no parents ended unfortunately when they somehow got the
train all the way home from Italy thanks to the good old volcano
popping up in iceland. It's good to have them back though as the house
is now back to it's usual state.
I was very lucky to be invited on board the TS Jack Petchey for a sail
down the Thames with a group of cadets from all the 10 cadet
organisations out there last week which was great fun! It was great to
meet Jack himself and we had a good chat about all sorts of random
things which was a laugh. It is a real honour to be working with an
organisation such as the Jack Petchey Foundation and it's fantastic to
see that though the hard work they're doing loads of young people are
being inspired to go that extra step.
I've been cracking on and still catching up with loads of college work
recently which I'm pleased to see is really progressing nicely. Also
what I'm totally dead chuffed about is how hot it is these days, it
feels like summer and I'm totally and madly excited about it! I was
out cutting the lawn this morning and it was brilliant to be able to
do so in bright sunshine and just a t-shirt.
I had a meeting with a large production company this week to talk
about some of my other future ideas which was really interesting and
we'll be seeing where that leads us...
I've been eagerly following everything happening with the Talisker
BountyBoat Expedition and I'm very excited for the guys out there who
are about to set off on the 28th. I'm a little nervous for them of
course, but gee, I really really wish I could be there participating
too! Just a shame that I fell ill at the time that I did. Good luck to
you guys, and I know you'll be having the adventure of a lifetime!
Mike
Wednesday, 14 April 2010
Good week to be a teenager
Hi Everybody
Since sending out a press release saying I won't be going on the Talisker Bounty Boat I've been overwhelmed by the messages of support and encouragement. Thanks so much if you sent one.
BIG Thanks for all the lovely comments I've received from people who have read my book. I still can't believe I'm offically an 'author'. One thing that might help my book sales is adding some reviews on Amazon if you don't mind.
Over the last week or so life has actually been a bit quiet for me, mostly enforced by having to take it easy when my tonsils flared up, but now feeling much better.
This week has been a dream week for any teenager – my parents have been away leaving me to eat, sleep and party as much as I wanted.
Tomorrow, I am going on board the TS Jack Petchey, which has been donated by the man himself to allow young people to experience life afloat. Should be fun! It will be good to meet the young people on board who I understand have all won Achievement Awards. www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk
Mike
Since sending out a press release saying I won't be going on the Talisker Bounty Boat I've been overwhelmed by the messages of support and encouragement. Thanks so much if you sent one.
BIG Thanks for all the lovely comments I've received from people who have read my book. I still can't believe I'm offically an 'author'. One thing that might help my book sales is adding some reviews on Amazon if you don't mind.
Over the last week or so life has actually been a bit quiet for me, mostly enforced by having to take it easy when my tonsils flared up, but now feeling much better.
This week has been a dream week for any teenager – my parents have been away leaving me to eat, sleep and party as much as I wanted.
Tomorrow, I am going on board the TS Jack Petchey, which has been donated by the man himself to allow young people to experience life afloat. Should be fun! It will be good to meet the young people on board who I understand have all won Achievement Awards. www.jackpetcheyfoundation.org.uk
Mike
Sunday, 4 April 2010
Happy Easter
Happy Easter everyone.
Since anouncing that I will not be going on the Talisker Bounty Boat voyage, loads of people have said it is probablly for the best and now that I have come to terms with the idea, I am already planning another adventure.
This week I visited a couple more schools near Leeds which were very different. One with high security and one very relaxed which seemed to reflect the mood of the kids. The feed back from my visit was really encouraging.
Radio stations and newspapers still want to talk to me about the Bounty Boat, so I am using the opportunity to talk about my book. I also appeared on the This Morning Show and as my mum was with me, she got interviewed at the same time.
Mike
Since anouncing that I will not be going on the Talisker Bounty Boat voyage, loads of people have said it is probablly for the best and now that I have come to terms with the idea, I am already planning another adventure.
This week I visited a couple more schools near Leeds which were very different. One with high security and one very relaxed which seemed to reflect the mood of the kids. The feed back from my visit was really encouraging.
Radio stations and newspapers still want to talk to me about the Bounty Boat, so I am using the opportunity to talk about my book. I also appeared on the This Morning Show and as my mum was with me, she got interviewed at the same time.
Mike
Sunday, 28 March 2010
End of Talisker Bounty Boat dream
Hi all,
This week I had my final medical and I received my test results back and I'm totally gutted to report that it's become clear that I won't be fit enough to participate in the Talisker Bounty Boat expedition. The doctors who I have been seeing whilst I've been recovering from my operation won't sign me as fit and are saying I shouldn't go.
Although the tests I've had to take have came back clear, the lymph glands in my abdominal area are still inflamed despite the time it's been since the operation which according to my doctor implies that there is still stuff going in on my body following the operation. The doc also said that this would explain why I am not putting any weight back on at the moment.
What with having my appendix out, I've lost just over a stone and I haven't been able to put any back on since arriving back home. The doc said it's as if my body has been through the trip once already and is still not far along the road of recovery. I real fine mentally and am raring to go, but physically still don't have anywhere near the amount of energy I used too.
Everyday that I've been home I've been hoping that the next day I would improve further and faster but it just hasn't really been happening. I had fully expected to be fit and dandy by now but it seems that my body just isn't recovering as fast as we'd all like it too.
So feeling really hacked off; I'm now announcing that I'll be off the boat simply down to health reasons and so now there is a place on the boat to fill. Anyone want to go and fill my spot??
The good news is that the book launch is going really well and I have probably signed over a hundred books for different people. I am actually really chuffed at the way it has gone and it is very satisfying to think that my story is in bookstores all over the country and now I am officially an 'Author'. I wonder what my English teachers must think of me!
Mike
This week I had my final medical and I received my test results back and I'm totally gutted to report that it's become clear that I won't be fit enough to participate in the Talisker Bounty Boat expedition. The doctors who I have been seeing whilst I've been recovering from my operation won't sign me as fit and are saying I shouldn't go.
Although the tests I've had to take have came back clear, the lymph glands in my abdominal area are still inflamed despite the time it's been since the operation which according to my doctor implies that there is still stuff going in on my body following the operation. The doc also said that this would explain why I am not putting any weight back on at the moment.
What with having my appendix out, I've lost just over a stone and I haven't been able to put any back on since arriving back home. The doc said it's as if my body has been through the trip once already and is still not far along the road of recovery. I real fine mentally and am raring to go, but physically still don't have anywhere near the amount of energy I used too.
Everyday that I've been home I've been hoping that the next day I would improve further and faster but it just hasn't really been happening. I had fully expected to be fit and dandy by now but it seems that my body just isn't recovering as fast as we'd all like it too.
So feeling really hacked off; I'm now announcing that I'll be off the boat simply down to health reasons and so now there is a place on the boat to fill. Anyone want to go and fill my spot??
The good news is that the book launch is going really well and I have probably signed over a hundred books for different people. I am actually really chuffed at the way it has gone and it is very satisfying to think that my story is in bookstores all over the country and now I am officially an 'Author'. I wonder what my English teachers must think of me!
Mike
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
I'm 18
Hi all,
Exciting news! The book is released tomorrow! It hits the shelves and will be available to buy in any good bookstore.
The last few days have been very busy with lots of press interviews surrounding the book and also the Talisker Bounty Boat expedition combined which has been excellent for ramping up both interest in the project and in the book.
Today after a bright and early start we were driven into London for a day of radio interviews and it was certainly a busy day as we went from studio to studio. The first show was with Libby Purves on Radio 4's midweek program which was good fun. There were four other guests there and we all sat around a table chatting about all sorts of different items for the 45minute long show.
Tomorrow is a very exciting day for me as I get to see the book on an actual shelf in a bookshop! I am doing the main book signing at Hatchards bookstore in Piccadilly from 11am to 1pm so if you want to pop down and grab a signed copy then feel welcome too and it would be great to see you there!
There are also signed copies available off my website www.challengemike.com so if you'd rather grab one off the net then you can order one from there.
It was my 18th birthday yesterday I'm pleased to say and it was a really good day all up which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was really relaxing and lovely to wake up and go into my parents bedroom and open a few presents with my family with us all in our dressing gowns. In the evening we went out for a lovely meal at an 'outback' restaurant which was good fun. Thank you everyone for your kind birthday messages.
Mike
Exciting news! The book is released tomorrow! It hits the shelves and will be available to buy in any good bookstore.
The last few days have been very busy with lots of press interviews surrounding the book and also the Talisker Bounty Boat expedition combined which has been excellent for ramping up both interest in the project and in the book.
Today after a bright and early start we were driven into London for a day of radio interviews and it was certainly a busy day as we went from studio to studio. The first show was with Libby Purves on Radio 4's midweek program which was good fun. There were four other guests there and we all sat around a table chatting about all sorts of different items for the 45minute long show.
Tomorrow is a very exciting day for me as I get to see the book on an actual shelf in a bookshop! I am doing the main book signing at Hatchards bookstore in Piccadilly from 11am to 1pm so if you want to pop down and grab a signed copy then feel welcome too and it would be great to see you there!
There are also signed copies available off my website www.challengemike.com so if you'd rather grab one off the net then you can order one from there.
It was my 18th birthday yesterday I'm pleased to say and it was a really good day all up which I thoroughly enjoyed. It was really relaxing and lovely to wake up and go into my parents bedroom and open a few presents with my family with us all in our dressing gowns. In the evening we went out for a lovely meal at an 'outback' restaurant which was good fun. Thank you everyone for your kind birthday messages.
Mike
Wednesday, 3 March 2010
Back home
Hi everyone,
I flew back into London yesterday morning at the bright and early time of 4.30am. It felt like just the afternoon in Australian time though so it wasn't so bad. A day and a half of flying can seriously muck up the sleep pattern..
Looking back at the training I'm totally chuffed with how it went to be honest. I don't think we could be much more prepared than we are now and that is a really good feeling. After packing everything into the container on Saturday there was even a feeling of 'what now?' as we'd now well and truly ticked the job list right off.
I'm really pleased with how the crew has bonded together as that is totally vital for a project like this and I can guarantee with the crew that we have we'll most certainly have an crazy lot of laughs on board.
As I had a couple of days to spare before I flew back to London I hopped over to Hobart to catch up on some friends I had made whilst staying there on my world voyage. I had a great time and had loads of laughs. I think Don and Margie's rabbit called Noddy remembered me..
I've got a lot of things happening this month before I fly back out to Australia, mainly cantered around the launch of my book 'Sailing the Dream' on the 18th of March. I'll keep you guys updated in due course.
Thanks for all the good wishes I received whilst I was laid up with appendicitis. I am now feeling fine, but have been told not to do any heavy lifting for a bit.
Mike
I flew back into London yesterday morning at the bright and early time of 4.30am. It felt like just the afternoon in Australian time though so it wasn't so bad. A day and a half of flying can seriously muck up the sleep pattern..
Looking back at the training I'm totally chuffed with how it went to be honest. I don't think we could be much more prepared than we are now and that is a really good feeling. After packing everything into the container on Saturday there was even a feeling of 'what now?' as we'd now well and truly ticked the job list right off.
I'm really pleased with how the crew has bonded together as that is totally vital for a project like this and I can guarantee with the crew that we have we'll most certainly have an crazy lot of laughs on board.
As I had a couple of days to spare before I flew back to London I hopped over to Hobart to catch up on some friends I had made whilst staying there on my world voyage. I had a great time and had loads of laughs. I think Don and Margie's rabbit called Noddy remembered me..
I've got a lot of things happening this month before I fly back out to Australia, mainly cantered around the launch of my book 'Sailing the Dream' on the 18th of March. I'll keep you guys updated in due course.
Thanks for all the good wishes I received whilst I was laid up with appendicitis. I am now feeling fine, but have been told not to do any heavy lifting for a bit.
Mike
Friday, 12 February 2010
Recovering
Hi everyone,
Sorry about the silence on my blog recently, I've been a tad preoccupied!
I arrived in Sydney last friday morning and after meeting up with David and Pete the other two crew members from overseas we jumped in our hire car and headed off to find the park we're staying at. It was great to see the boat and see the guys expressions the first time they saw her. I'm sure they both shouted "she's tiny!" Don came by later in the evening after driving up from Hobart with all sorts of bits and bobs.
Saturday was the first day of the sea survival course and after just an hour or so, I decided I was feeling pretty ill and went out to get some fresh air. I later headed back to the cabin in a taxi as I wasn't getting any better. I thought it was only dehydration but it turned out to be a little worse..
After waiting to get better I headed into hospital to get checked out as I'd been advised to, and they decided to keep me in overnight for observations as they couldn't define what was up with me. Another day followed with another night in hospital with more tests and the day after that they decided to operate and see if it was my appendix that was causing me a load of constant pain. The op went smoothly fortunately and I was later told that my appendix was certainly inflamed so it was a very good call to have it taken out.
I spent another night in hospital recovering and then the guys came and picked me up and brought me back to the cabin. I'm currently resting up a lot and not really doing much to be honest! Sleep is a little difficult as is moving around but it will hopefully get a lot easier with time.
There's lots happening to the boat in terms of small modifications which are exciting to see and it looks like she'll be going in the water very shortly which should be fun.
Mike
Sorry about the silence on my blog recently, I've been a tad preoccupied!
I arrived in Sydney last friday morning and after meeting up with David and Pete the other two crew members from overseas we jumped in our hire car and headed off to find the park we're staying at. It was great to see the boat and see the guys expressions the first time they saw her. I'm sure they both shouted "she's tiny!" Don came by later in the evening after driving up from Hobart with all sorts of bits and bobs.
Saturday was the first day of the sea survival course and after just an hour or so, I decided I was feeling pretty ill and went out to get some fresh air. I later headed back to the cabin in a taxi as I wasn't getting any better. I thought it was only dehydration but it turned out to be a little worse..
After waiting to get better I headed into hospital to get checked out as I'd been advised to, and they decided to keep me in overnight for observations as they couldn't define what was up with me. Another day followed with another night in hospital with more tests and the day after that they decided to operate and see if it was my appendix that was causing me a load of constant pain. The op went smoothly fortunately and I was later told that my appendix was certainly inflamed so it was a very good call to have it taken out.
I spent another night in hospital recovering and then the guys came and picked me up and brought me back to the cabin. I'm currently resting up a lot and not really doing much to be honest! Sleep is a little difficult as is moving around but it will hopefully get a lot easier with time.
There's lots happening to the boat in terms of small modifications which are exciting to see and it looks like she'll be going in the water very shortly which should be fun.
Mike
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
Appendix gone
Hello everybody
I thought now Mike was on dry land he would be updating this blog, but alas he has just had his appendix removed and has asked me to update.
Mike flew to Sydney a few days ago to meet up with the other guys signed up as Bounty Boat crew and to help prepare and take part in the training Don is working up. Mike only managed the morning of the survival course before retiring with abdominal pains then throwing up and fainting a couple of times. He was taken to hospital by some kind people who Don knows. He was admitted straight away and after a couple of days of tests and monitoring the surgeon took the decision of removing his appendix. Great news…one less thing to worry about in the future…. shame he couldn't have his tonsils and any other redundant organs taken out at the same time! The doctors and nurses have done a great job at looking after Mike and BIG thanks to everyone who has visited him.
Peter
Dad
I thought now Mike was on dry land he would be updating this blog, but alas he has just had his appendix removed and has asked me to update.
Mike flew to Sydney a few days ago to meet up with the other guys signed up as Bounty Boat crew and to help prepare and take part in the training Don is working up. Mike only managed the morning of the survival course before retiring with abdominal pains then throwing up and fainting a couple of times. He was taken to hospital by some kind people who Don knows. He was admitted straight away and after a couple of days of tests and monitoring the surgeon took the decision of removing his appendix. Great news…one less thing to worry about in the future…. shame he couldn't have his tonsils and any other redundant organs taken out at the same time! The doctors and nurses have done a great job at looking after Mike and BIG thanks to everyone who has visited him.
Peter
Dad
Wednesday, 3 February 2010
Off Piste
Hi everyone,
I got back from skiing on Saturday and wow what a good week it was. I went with an old friend of mine Tom and we generally skied down any piste or off piste available which was certainly a good laugh. We were up in the French resort of Tignes and the choice of piste and off piste was just huge so we definitely explored a good bit. Amusingly every single lunch time we'd ski to the same restaurant on the mountain and have the same pizza there as it was one of the cheapest meals on the mountain - especially what with us being students, every little bit of saved money helps. Surprisingly the resort actually felt quite empty, which was a good thing as a lot of the slopes were nice and empty, although the nightlife did suffer a little subsequently.
Since getting back, I have been totally absorbed making changes to my book, reading and re-reading it before it goes to the printers. I will post details of outlets and how it may be obtained overseas, when they are all firmed up.
Tonight I'm jumping on a plane to Hong Kong which is my transfer airport for flying out to Sydney, arriving there Friday morning! Almost a day in the air! Crazy! I've been looking forward to heading out to Oz a lot and I really am very excited. Especially as it's nice and hot there now too! I'm out there training for the BountyBoat expedition and so I'm sure as team we're going to bond really well which I'm looking forward too.
Right, I suppose I better pack! I'll keep you updated with how the training progresses.
Mike
I got back from skiing on Saturday and wow what a good week it was. I went with an old friend of mine Tom and we generally skied down any piste or off piste available which was certainly a good laugh. We were up in the French resort of Tignes and the choice of piste and off piste was just huge so we definitely explored a good bit. Amusingly every single lunch time we'd ski to the same restaurant on the mountain and have the same pizza there as it was one of the cheapest meals on the mountain - especially what with us being students, every little bit of saved money helps. Surprisingly the resort actually felt quite empty, which was a good thing as a lot of the slopes were nice and empty, although the nightlife did suffer a little subsequently.
Since getting back, I have been totally absorbed making changes to my book, reading and re-reading it before it goes to the printers. I will post details of outlets and how it may be obtained overseas, when they are all firmed up.
Tonight I'm jumping on a plane to Hong Kong which is my transfer airport for flying out to Sydney, arriving there Friday morning! Almost a day in the air! Crazy! I've been looking forward to heading out to Oz a lot and I really am very excited. Especially as it's nice and hot there now too! I'm out there training for the BountyBoat expedition and so I'm sure as team we're going to bond really well which I'm looking forward too.
Right, I suppose I better pack! I'll keep you updated with how the training progresses.
Mike
Saturday, 23 January 2010
Talks, Talks, Talks
Hi everyone,
Well this last week has just been crazily busy. Great fun though!
On Monday I visited the Wren school in North London and did two talks there which was good fun. Later that day I hopped on a train up to Bradford where I had one of Bradford's famous curries and stayed the night. The following morning I went to visit an organisation called The Lighthouse Group. I've never quite seen a setup like the one they had and I was pretty impressed to say the least. The Lighthouse Group is an organisation that works with guys who have been excluded from school and their aim is to get them back on track. An amazing fact is that two thirds of people who are in prison were excluded from school.
I worked with a couple of small groups of people there and it was great to see just how determined some of these guys were to get out there and really lead an exciting life. One of the girls has an ambition to get out to Africa and work there for a while. I know the people heading up the organisation are looking into that and it shows just how committed these people are to getting these guys back on track.
I got on the train back to London, had a super busy day with more engagements and then on Thursday I popped up to Stafford to stay at my relatives house, as I was to do a talk at their college the following day which went really well. The guys at Stafford college made us feel very welcome so thanks guys!
My throat has started to give up now so I'm cutting back on the speaking a little to let it mend but in the meantime a good old friend of mine and I are flying out to France this afternoon to go skiing for a week! We only booked it a few days ago as a spur of the moment bargain holiday but I'm sure we're going to have some great fun out there. We're skiing in Tinges which is an amazing resort, so it should be pretty good that's for sure.
Anyway, I better be off, as I've got to get out to the airport shortly. I'll let you guys know how the skiing goes when I get back.
Mike
Well this last week has just been crazily busy. Great fun though!
On Monday I visited the Wren school in North London and did two talks there which was good fun. Later that day I hopped on a train up to Bradford where I had one of Bradford's famous curries and stayed the night. The following morning I went to visit an organisation called The Lighthouse Group. I've never quite seen a setup like the one they had and I was pretty impressed to say the least. The Lighthouse Group is an organisation that works with guys who have been excluded from school and their aim is to get them back on track. An amazing fact is that two thirds of people who are in prison were excluded from school.
I worked with a couple of small groups of people there and it was great to see just how determined some of these guys were to get out there and really lead an exciting life. One of the girls has an ambition to get out to Africa and work there for a while. I know the people heading up the organisation are looking into that and it shows just how committed these people are to getting these guys back on track.
I got on the train back to London, had a super busy day with more engagements and then on Thursday I popped up to Stafford to stay at my relatives house, as I was to do a talk at their college the following day which went really well. The guys at Stafford college made us feel very welcome so thanks guys!
My throat has started to give up now so I'm cutting back on the speaking a little to let it mend but in the meantime a good old friend of mine and I are flying out to France this afternoon to go skiing for a week! We only booked it a few days ago as a spur of the moment bargain holiday but I'm sure we're going to have some great fun out there. We're skiing in Tinges which is an amazing resort, so it should be pretty good that's for sure.
Anyway, I better be off, as I've got to get out to the airport shortly. I'll let you guys know how the skiing goes when I get back.
Mike
Friday, 15 January 2010
New Website
Hi everyone,
Welcome to the new website! Hope you all like it!
We've expanded the content here and there which should make the use of the site easier. Also the blog should be easier to use now.
It's fantastic news to see that Jessica Watson has now rounded cape horn nice and safely and I'm really chuffed for her. She's always in such high spirits and I continue to be really impressed by her super positive attitude.
I've finally sent off all my university applications so am waiting to hear some replies. Fingers crossed I get the offers that I'm hoping for.
The snow is finally melting away here in Potters Bar which is kind of a good sign to be honest. Finally things can get back to normal!
Next week, I'm visiting three schools all in different parts of the country, I'll keep you updated about how it's going.
Mike
Welcome to the new website! Hope you all like it!
We've expanded the content here and there which should make the use of the site easier. Also the blog should be easier to use now.
It's fantastic news to see that Jessica Watson has now rounded cape horn nice and safely and I'm really chuffed for her. She's always in such high spirits and I continue to be really impressed by her super positive attitude.
I've finally sent off all my university applications so am waiting to hear some replies. Fingers crossed I get the offers that I'm hoping for.
The snow is finally melting away here in Potters Bar which is kind of a good sign to be honest. Finally things can get back to normal!
Next week, I'm visiting three schools all in different parts of the country, I'll keep you updated about how it's going.
Mike
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