Another young crossing

14-year-old to sail channel solo

A 14-year-old boy follows the trend in young adventurers facing record-breaking challenges as he embarks on sailing across the Channel unaided.

Oliver Hancox, from Jacobstowe in Devon, plans to make the solo trip from England to France during the May half-term 2010, in memory of his father who died of cancer last year.

Oliver clearly inherited his adventurous genes: Neil Hancox was the first person to windsurf across the Channel in 1983.

A spokesperson from the Royal Yacht Association said: “The RYA strongly supports sailing and adventure activities for young people… However, there are risks associated with embarking on any voyage and solo sailing presents its own additional hazards, whatever the sailor’s age.”

Aware of the dangers of sailing alone, the teenager is undergoing a tough eight-week training programme before the cold winter.

Despite his age, Oliver is determined to raise £10,000 for Cancer Research and become the youngest person to sail unassisted across the Channel.
In a statement, the RYA said: “[We] recommend that sailors ensure they have relevant experience, knowledge, training, and understanding of the sea rules… before considering undertaking such a challenge.”

The fashion for young people to embark on demanding voyages has been growing over the years but Oliver’s agenda is a private one, wanting to raise money for other cancer sufferers, and to make his adventurous father proud.    
                   
He said: “This is one of the most important things I have ever done. Cancer affects so many people and I think this is why the support I am seeing is already so strong.”       

The young sailing enthusiast aims to complete the 115 miles from Plymouth to Roscoff in France in just 24 hours. The 5m Silhouette Mk II Hurley boat, Oliver will be sailing is called Cariad, meaning ‘Love’ in Welsh.

In a press statement, Oliver admits his fears over this colossal challenge but has his eye on the finish line: “I am a little scared but also incredibly excited and pleased that I can do my bit to help people in the future.”

Having already raised £865, posts on his donation page are loving and emotional, one reading: “Dad will be keeping you safe.” It is clear that Oliver’s is a challenge that demands not only strength, but also courage, wisdom and bravery, far beyond his young 14 years.

To sponsor Oliver visit: www.channelchallenge.co.uk