Tuesday, 11am: YACHTSMEN from Skegness have circumnavigated the British Isles overcoming sharks and engine failure to complete an epic eight week nautical adventure.
Former Mayor of Skegness Michael Clark, of Burgh le Marsh and self-employed builder Alex Collingwood of Skegness, set sail on their daunting voyage from Gibraltar Point on May 14 in their yacht named Solo.
Michael, aged 67, said: "It was very challenging but we were lucky with the weather which was good nearly all the way round."
During their time at sea they encountered 39 ports, became stranded in Fishguard, collided with a 12-foot basking shark off the cape of Cornwall and suffered engine failure in the Irish Sea.
However the most challenging aspect of the journey for the Skegness born and bred duo was enduring the cramped accommodation in the tiny 26-foot yacht and managing all the duties with such a small crew.
"Because we did it in such a quick time it's fairly intense going into one port then on to the next, sometimes sailing for 24 hours straight and taking it in turns to get what rest we could.
"With the limited space you need to make sure you get on with the rest of your crew."
Fortunately Michael and Alex are still on speaking terms and were welcomed back by their families and yacht club members on their return for a celebratory barbecue.
During his time as a sailor Michael has also served with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and sailed to Holland, however for the time being he has no further adventures planned.
- Last Updated: 03 August 2010 10:57 AM
- Source: Skegness Standard, http://www.skegnessstandard.co.uk/news/Skegness-sailing-duo-survive-sharks.6449288.jp
- Location: Skegness
Alex Collingwood aboard Solo.
