Dee Caffari

What's Next: Dee wins Sportsman of the Year Award at The News Sports Awards

Sat, 10 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

On 8^th February at the fifth News Sports Awards, held at the Pyramids Centre, Portsmouth. Dee was honoured for her amazing triumph of sailing solo round the world against the winds and currents by winning the coveted Sportsman of the Year award.It was a star-studded occasion with the likes of manager Harry Redknapp being recognised with a Lifetime Achievement award. In all, 12 awards were handed out and the voting was entirely down to News readers who voted en masse for Dee to win.Dee had a busy week with fitness testing in Leeds and then onto several European visits so was sadly unable to attend the awards ceremony in person.On Thursday evening Dee said ‘My day finished with the best news yet, that I had won the Portsmouth News Sportsman of the Year Award. I was deeply saddened not to be there in person to accept such an honour, but would still like to thank everyone who voted and gave me the chance to win the award’.Dee will be bringing her newly launched project, the Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign to Portsmouth Harbour shortly, when she brings her Open 60 boat back from France where she is currently being tested. The campaign team will be working from Portsmouth Harbour for the next few years leading up to the Vendee Globe Race in November 2008.We would like to thank everyone who voted for Dee and for the recognition given to her and Aviva for all their adventures last year.

What's Next: Have lunch with Dee and get your name in print

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Win your chance to name Dee Caffari\'s new book and have lunch with the record-breaking yachtswoman.Dee Caffari became an inspiration to many people when she succeeded in becoming the first woman to sail solo, non-stop around the world against the prevailing wind and currents, but now she needs some inspiration from you - her supporters!In between launching her new Aviva Ocean Racing campaign, preparing for the Vendee Globe and training for the London Marathon, Dee is finding the time to write a book about her incredible journey from sailing novice to record breaker in only six years. The book takes you through Dee\'s adventure when she dared to step out of her comfort zone, endure physical hardship in terrible conditions and earn herself a place in the history books.Dee has set you a challenge - to come up with the best title to describe her adventure. She will select her favourite three titles and submit them to her publisher for their consideration. The three winners will also win lunch with Dee at the Southampton Boat Show (14 - 23 September 2007) and who knows - it could be your suggestion that makes it onto the cover itself! To help Dee and for your chance to win all you need to do is fill out the form below to submit your entries.Closing date is 9 February 2007.Click here to enter our competition

What's Next: DEE'S LAUNCH - AVIVA OCEAN RACING

Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

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The Collins Stewart London Boat Show at ExCel in the heart of Docklands was the venue for the launch of Dee's exciting new sailing campaign, Aviva Ocean Racing. Dee is once again being supported by the world's fifth largest insurance group, Aviva and, with their help, she will now move up into theworld of Open 60 racing on the IMOCA circuit. Intense training now starts for Dee as she strives toward her latest goal and what is commonly known as the pinnacle of solo offshore racing ...the Vendee Globe 2008/9. For all Aviva Ocean Racing campaign news go to www.avivaoceanracing.com

What's Next: Dee to run in the London Marathon - 2007

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Having successfully completed the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge, Dee has been thinking hard about her next focus. The world of adventure racing has forced Dee to push her limits and experience life outside her comfort zone. Inevitably, Dee’s fitness levels have improved tremendously over the last few months and she has been looking for a way to continue all the hard work she has put in to date.The Flora London Marathon, taking place on 22nd April 2007, makes for an ideal project. In her new role as a patron for the charity Sail 4 Cancer, Dee will be running for the charity to help raise awareness and much needed funds.The inaugural London Marathon took place in March 1981. It was born out of one man’s dream who, having seen the New York Marathon take place, was inspired to say;“To believe this story you must believe that the human race be one joyous family, working together, laughing together, achieving the impossible. Last Sunday, in one of the most trouble-stricken cities in the world, 11,532 men and women from 40 countries in the world, assisted by over a million black, white and yellow people, laughed, cheered and suffered during the greatest folk festival the world has seen." Enchanted with the sight of people coming together for such an occasion, he concluded questioning "..whether London could stage such a festival?"To be part of something so huge and successful will be an honour, but now the training must start. As always, getting to the start line is going to be the hardest part.

Dee's Diary: Dee Sailing Aviva

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Aviva and I, along with my willing recruits departed our safety of the V1D2 yard at Caen and made our way down to the lock at the end of the canal in Ouistreham. We had every bridge open ahead of us and then at 1030hrs we met Marco at the lock. He jumped onboard and smiled as we had a perfect forecast for our sailing planned for the day. The important part was to allow Marco to check the set up of the rig to ensure he was happy with it.

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With a watery sun and flat water we set off from the lock and hoisted the mainsail. The breeze was 15 knots from the southeast. Once we had checked our reefing line attachments we hoisted the Solent sail that sits furled at the front. We were off heading up wind at 15 knots. Marco looked at the rig from all angles and I followed him around the deck like a lost sheep that had a huge grin on my face. We tacked and followed the same procedure with the sails on the other side. The breeze was building as the forecast had suggested it would and we changed from a full main to one reef and then furled the Solent sail away and hoisted the trinquette sail. Once we were happy with that system, we gybed the boat and set up to hoist our code 5 sail. This reaching sail is perfect for wind strength in the early twenties and we now had 23 knots of breeze. We hoisted it and suffered it unfurling before we were ready but we overcame the issues and began sailing at twenty knots without even trying. Marco was driving and enjoying playing with Aviva and trying to get her to go faster. It was great.

We dropped the sail and then faced an upwind journey back to Ouistreham to

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catch the lock. On the way we settled with a reef in the mainsail and the trinquette sail. We easily did between 9.5 and 10 knots, with the true wind angle at about 52 degrees and a wind speed approximately 18 knots with lulls as we closed the coast. It felt so easy. If I had been sailing at ten knots in the previous Aviva, I would have been really happy and it would have felt really fast. Now it felt too easy and I was looking for ways to power her up and feel the sensation of ten knots. Still I am aware now that I will be getting used to sailing at twenty knots being normal and thirty knots being the exhilarating on the edge of control feeling.

Everyday is a school day and I am constantly going to be learning when I go out sailing with Aviva. I am already much happier with her systems and getting things in the right order with manoeuvres as well as learning all the little hiccups that occur, like where the rope gets jammed if it is not taken in, all the time.

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It is great to be out on the water again after so long away. The winter is definitely passing us by and the days are getting longer and the temperature improving all the time.

I can’t wait to get out here again next week.

Dee

for more information on Dee's sailing campaign please click here

Dee's Diary: Aviva undergoes IMOCA Tests

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

British sailing is very exciting at the moment with our Olympic hopes being as

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strong as ever, we have also announced a British bid with Origin for the America’s Cup. Our offshore sailing continues to be exciting with the most potential British entries into the IMOCA Class to date and we are all joining a group of sailors and their boats that are striving to be ever more professional.

To join the IMOCA Class requires that the boats be within the established Open 60 rule. Despite the new Aviva having taken part in two Vendee Globe Races, he has still not been measured since 2004. Therefore, we are currently going through the process to ensure everything is as it should be.

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The process of measurement includes tilting the boat on its side and measuring the boat and keel whilst they are separated. Today Aviva underwent a 90-degree test to check the righting moment of the yacht. We also measured the overall weight of the boat together with the rig. After a 10-degree test involving us filling ballast tanks and canting the keel to check her stability, Aviva made her first steps to join the IMOCA Class.

The whole day bought back memories of working with Mike Golding in 2000. We measured this very same boat in a different colour scheme. Last time, Mike was the skipper and I was the nipper that had to dive and fix lifting strops to the keel. There was no getting wet for me today!

Dee

Dee's Diary: Marathon Training Weekend

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

This weekend I attended a Trailplus Running Weekend in the Forest of Dean. Twenty-one keen and enthusiastic runners of all abilities and experience were there to learn from the experts on hand. Keith Anderson a former International Athlete and Commonwealth Games Marathon Runner, ran the weekend with running experts that were really there to help us all.We arrived on the Friday night to an introduction session where we all introduced ourselves and revealed our level. I would hazard a guess at the total number of marathons already run in the room would be in triple figures. The experience and levels of my peers was impressive and I was beginning to feel as if I had attended the wrong weekend. I soon found after admitting that I was a virgin marathon runner that I was not alone. Four of us were all virgins, I had some company, although having only started running seriously in December, I was a seriously new recruit to this environment.The Saturday morning began at 0730hrs with a 5km run. This was labelled as an easy jog at a pace that allowed conversation. I was nervous and my heart rate was already above a hundred and I had only been out of bed for thirty minutes. We set off and entered the forest trail. The setting was lovely and the weather was still and clear, in fact a lot warmer than I had dressed for. Now one thing is for sure - I am a sailor and definitely not a runner. As I slowly followed everyone back to the centre for showers and breakfast I seriously asked myself what I thought I was doing running for the weekend. The guys at Trailplus were fabulous and actually didn’t care how fast I could run but that I was learning from them. Thankfully I am quite resilient and I wasn’t fazed too much at how far behind I was. I am running for a charity and I know I have the mental strength to get to the end somehow but what I want to do is to actually run to the end of the marathon. This is going to be a huge ask!After breakfast we interspersed theory sessions with some practical sessions running at 80%-85% of our perceived exertion and also some hill running. This was to look at both our muscular and speed endurance abilities. Three running sessions in a day was new to me and I enjoyed the stretching session at the end. The food was fantastic and after all the effort we had put into the day we enjoyed eating without guilt.Sunday was the day of the notorious long run. After our briefing in the morning I was more nervous than I had been all weekend. I was worried that my slow pace would impact on everybody else’s run. The reality was I had no reason to worry at all. The sun broke through the mist as we followed a trail into the Forest. We reached a water station where we could all practise drinking on the run and then we set off again for a looped circuit so everyone could run for the length of time they wanted. I had Jackie run with me from the local running club so if I decided I needed to stop and head back I wouldn’t get lost in the forest.Exhilarated with the feeling for running at a slightly more even pace for my hour and forty-five minutes I enjoyed a hearty lunch replacing all that energy I had used up. After a talk of what the marathon day would really entail and more importantly the days that follow the run we were nervous and excited. It sounded horrific and horrendous at the same time. Still, they say you never only run one marathon!!!!Dee

Dee's Diary:

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I have been back in the country this week and almost caught up with everyone. Next week I will be in France getting better acquainted with my new friend, Aviva. She has missed me but after some inclination tests we will be going sailing together again.

This week I had the wonderful opportunity to speak at a dinner in London that was helping raise funds for the Charity, The Jubilee Sailing Trust. The generosity in the auction was fabulous and all who attended had a very successful evening.

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This afternoon I had the privilege to attend a reception in the Mayor of Gosport’s Parlour with the Swallows and Amazons from Alverstoke Junior School. It was great to see so many of the young sailors again and they looked excited when I told them that the new Aviva would be coming home to the UK soon and would be making her home in Portsmouth Harbour. I am sure there would be no short supply of crew from the Swallows and Amazons if I needed. Also with us today was Sizzles, the bear that the school gave me to keep me company around the world. I asked their permission and they all agreed that Sizzles would be able to come with me on my next big adventure, The Vendee Globe in 2008.

Tonight I was in London addressing a crowd at the London Corinthian Sailing Club. As one of their evening lecture series I agreed to talk to them. With standing room only I conveyed my highs and lows of the Aviva Challenge and then showed some footage of the new Aviva sailing and explained the Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign. They were a great audience and I would like to thank them all for their generous contributions they made for my charity Sail 4 Cancer as they left the room.

Dee

Dee's Diary:

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Planes, Trains and Automobiles were the order of the day yesterday, but my timing was awful as I picked the day when Britain was affected by snow. My flight from a wet Paris airport was delayed by two hours as we sat motionless on the runway awaiting a take off slot that was dependant on Heathrow being able to cope with our arrival. This was an indication of what to expect when we landed a couple of hours late.Grateful to the Heathrow Express Service I travelled past the snow covered fields and arrived in London at Claridges for lunch at Gordon Ramsey's restaurant.It was a lunch to remember, as the Flora London Marathon celebrity group met the press and we dined and discussed running tactics and learnt the truth of what it was going to be like. Nerves and excitement mixed with some fabulous food and we all left inspired to keep up the preparation for April 22nd that will arrive all too soon I am sure.After a taxi to the station it was back onto the Heathrow Express and Heathrow Airport where I was relieved to find that my flight to Prague was still scheduled to depart on time to.My day finished with the best news yet, that I had won the Portsmouth News Sportsman of the Year Award. I was deeply saddened not to be there in person to accept such an honour, but would still like to thank everyone who voted and gave me the chance to win the award.It is a really exciting time and I am delighted to be bringing my next campaign, The Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign to Portsmouth Harbour shortly, when we bring the boat back from France where she is currently being tested. I shall be basing the campaign from Portsmouth Harbour for the next few years leading up to the Vendee Globe Race in November 2008. It was a busy day but it ended with fantastic news which makes it all worth it.Thank you to everyone for the recognition you gave me and Aviva for all our adventures last year.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 06 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

After having a rather indulgent week during my birthday involving lots of chocolate cake and then a fabulous week enjoying the snow whilst boarding around the French Alps I was more than a little worried when I checked my diary and realised that I was already due back to Leeds for a check on how my marathon training was coming along.

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I arrived and was tested following the same procedure as seven weeks ago. I completed a submaximal test and a maximal test on the treadmill aswell as checking my percentage bodyfat. My hopes were for the results graph to dsiplay the figures more to the right as I was hoping for my base level aerobic fitness to have improved with the programme the guys has set me on. I was smiling like a cheshire cat at lunchtime when the results were printed stating that I had indeed improved my fitness levels and I could now start increasing the mileage and the speed of some of my runs as I moved into the middle stage of training in preparation for the Flora London Marathon.

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I am running to raise awareness and funds for the charity Sail 4 Cancer and now feel more confident that I will be making it to the end of the 26 mile course.

I also gave a Carnegie Lecture at the University to staff students and invited guests. I recounted tales of my adventures on the high seas during the Aviva Challenge and surprised and shocked some people that knew me several years ago as a teacher and as a student, who at the time had no intention of sailing around the world be it alone or in Comapny. How things change over time!

With the threat of snow forecast it was a stark reminder to me of how cold it can be up north and I am pleased to be leaving to go to Paris to visit a leadership group of Aviva, before taking the forward thinking campaign message out to Prague at the end of the week.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Well I am off for a week skiing in the French Alps. There has been some great snow this week, which I am glad about otherwise I would have been going on a hill walking holiday.

I did learn today that Aviva had found the snow before me. She is certainly getting a cold bottom but I believe the V1D2 yard in Caen have a hot cup of tea with her everyday.

Dee

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Dee's Diary:

Tue, 23 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Twelve months ago I approached Point Nemo, the most remote point on the planet. It is the furthest point from civilisation. In fact the nearest person to me was a Russian cosmonaut in the International Space Station.

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I arrived at this location on my birthday and it was kind of exciting but when I realised that it was quicker to get rescue to my Russian friend than it was to me in the Southern Ocean it was a stark reminder to how remote and hostile my environment was.

I am relieved to say that this year I am having a much more social birthday with friends and lots of birthday cake, and there are cards and presents. It is very exciting!

Dee

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 19 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Wow, Canada is great. I arrived just after they had enjoyed their first
blizzard of the winter. The weather has been unusually mild for Canadians, but I am relieved to tell you that I arrived to snow and ice on the sidewalks. It was really cool to see and made my image of Canada a little more real although I have not bumped into a Mounty on a horse yet.

I visited the Toronto International Boat Show today and met with Derek
Hatfield onboard his Open 60 Spirit of Canada. He was a lovely guy to meet and it was a great chance to put a face to a name and meet him in person before we start to meet out on the water when we line up for a race. It was refreshing to so many people visit Derek and his yacht and see the level of support he is getting from Canada.

I had a number of interviews with the Canadian press and had the opportunity to go on live TV on the new Sun TV channel in Toronto. It is fabulous to see sailing raising its profile and have the chance to help that happen by sharing news of my new Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign.

I visited the Aviva Canada offices and had the chance to say thank you to all those that followed the Aviva Challenge and sent me messages of support. It was a fun day and I was overwhelmed by the interest. This level of interest continued the next day when I returned to The Toronto International Boat Show to give a couple of seminars to an audience. There was a full audience for both seminars and numerous questions to answer at the end. The number of children who came to hear my story and ask questions was really impressive and I hope some if not all of them go on to enjoy the wonderful environment of sailing.

To illustrate how small the world is whilst wondering around the huge show at the Direct Energy Centre I bumped into one of my crew for the Global Challenge Race. It was great to see him and I couldnt believe my luck.

I ran this morning before leaving town and before the snow started to fall again. It was great timing even though I felt as if my ears had frozen off
the side of my head.

Dee

Dee's Diary:

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I can no longer hide behind having a hectic schedule and being busy to avoid the fundamental basics that in order to achieve running the marathon for Sail 4 Cancer in April, I have to start training now seriously. Up until now I have been trying but I have always managed to find something else to do, especially when the weather is bad.I have tremendous support from my former University, Leeds Met Carnegie, who not only have to get me across the finish line for the marathon but have been tasked with getting me sailing fit to be ready for the Vendee Globe in November 2008.I have therefore started running either to or from work. This now fits an hours running in at the start or end of the day, which I am enjoying, although I ran this morning in the rain, which despite being warm was pretty miserable. At the end of the week I am off to Toronto in Canada, where I believe it is cold, so I shall take my warm clothes to run in. I can’t stop all the good work already. I am visiting Aviva offices in Canada and also having the opportunity to speak at the Toronto Boat Show about the new Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign and of course my historical Aviva Challenge.See you soon,Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 13 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In complete contrast to the hectic schedule and excitement of the previous couple of days, I spent yesterday presenting for Yachting TV. This is an Internet programme that can be viewed for free. www.yachtingtv.co.ukThe programmes run for a month at a time and the first show will run from the 22nd January. Steve Adams and I were filming for programme two yesterday and I was set a challenge to find some interesting gadgets at the London Boat Show. We had a great time and met some interesting people and learnt a great deal about some fabulous gadgets. I almost felt like Challenge Annika only I didn’t have a jump suit on!Now the Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign is real and public knowledge we have a busy period now finalising plans for my development and also deciding the best strategies for the very exciting new build with Owen Clarke Design.It is such an exciting time for me I am not quite sure where to start!Dee

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday was a day full of questions and photographs. It was exciting and has

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made all my plans real.

It is sad to know that the opportunity to view an Open 60 is now not available as

the weather prevented the boat getting to the show. The 60-knot winds that blew through the Dover Straits and the Thames Estuary meant that prudent decision-making was required.

When Aviva went in the water last week, I was excited but still felt I was getting a boat ready for someone else. Now I have announced my campaign to the world it has become very real and I now finally realise that the Open 60 now in the water is mine.

Aviva is currently at the V1D2 yard in Caen, France where Marco and his team have been looking after her really well and helping Harry and the team get her ready for 2007 and her new campaign. I really do feel for the guys who have worked with Harry. They have worked so hard to get the boat ready for the Collins Stewart London Boat Show, it is a real shame we didn’t get to show her off. The prudent decision was made as we haven’t yet mastered controlling the weather yet!

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The campaign programme not only requires me to be fit to sail but also needs me to get valuable time afloat learning my new training boat and making decisions for the design of my new boat in build. This is a new aspect for me and has become part of my steep learning curve. I can’t wait to get started.

Dee

Dee's Diary:

Thu, 11 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I am really proud to share with you a very special day. Launched today, is news of my new campaign. I am delighted to share my news that I have been organising behind the scenes over the past few weeks.

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I am thrilled to announce that Aviva are returning as my sponsor for the Aviva Ocean Racing Campaign. This campaign will see me scale some of the steepest learning curves in existence, as I work toward competing with the best of the best, in the pinnacle event of solo offshore sailing, The Vendee Globe. As part of Aviva’s Forward Thinking Campaign, this sponsorship will bring Forward Thinking to an international level and hopefully inspire everyone to look to the future.

I was disappointed that the ferocious British weather we have been enduring recently has prevented me from displaying the new Aviva for public view. We have purchased Aviva, formally known as Hellomoto and before that as Team Group 4. This yacht will become my training vessel as I learn and attempt to download valuable knowledge from experienced sailors to help me on my way up the steep learning curve I have set myself.

The announcement to the public took place at the Stewart Collins Boat Show. It is a really exciting time for me and it is going to be the start of something huge. Patrick Snowball from Aviva told people of the sponsor’s decision and I couldn’t help but beam with delight.

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The campaign will also involve a new Open 60 to be built. This will be an Owen Clarke Design and built in New Zealand. It’s launch is anticipated to be in December and this will allow for valuable time sail testing and tuning the boat in good weather before shipping her to the East coast of the States for some valuable downwind transatlantic sailing.

I will be doing a number of IMOCA races to help my development in the Open 60 world and these have been carefully chosen to allow for progression. They begin with crewed events, then two-handed events and finally culminating with solo sailing in preparation for the Vendee Globe in November 2008.

It was a whirlwind of a day, but everyone was quite supportive. Now I begin what is again a challenge of pushing my limits and living outside my comfort zone. The pressure is on but so to is the opportunity to achieve something great and potentially become the first woman to sail both directions around the world, single-handed and non-stop.

Dee

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 09 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

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The Yachting Journalists Association presented the Raymarine Yachtsman of the Year Award today at the The Painted Hall, Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich. The nominees for the award were Steve Curtis (8 times power boat racing champion) Nic Asher & Elliot Willis (470 World Champions) and myself.The competition was stiff but I am chuffed to bits to let you know that Lady Pippa Blake presented the trophy to me.I've won the Raymarine YJA Yachtsman of the Year Award!

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I was lost for words - which doesn't happen very often. The room was full of influential people in the sailing world and also my Mum. This was the first award ceremony that she had been to, so I was really pleased she was there to see me triumphant. The fact that it was Lady Pippa Blake awarding the trophy made it twice as special for me. Her late husband is a hero of mine and was a constant source of inspiration for me during my 178 days at sea on the Aviva Challenge last year. It is lovely that my voyage received the recognition and an absolute honour to have my name join with those already on this trophy.The list really is spectacular and includes the greats such as Sir Chay Blyth, Sir Robin Know Johnson, Sir Peter Blake and Dame Ellen MacArthur. Olympic offshore and power boat racers alike have received this trophy and it really is exciting for it to be my turn this year. I would like to thank all the public that voted for me initially, the yachting journalists for their final votes and Raymarine for sponsoring this very special annual award.A very happy and excited Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 06 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Today was a sad and proud time for me.My baby, ‘Aviva’ has been renamed, ‘Polar Bear’ and she has a new owner.Formally, at the Collins Stewart Boat Show on the UKSA stand this afternoon, I handed over the keys for the yacht to her new owner, Mark.Mark was a former UKSA student and has made a career change from working in the Petroleum Industry to live his dream of fulfilling the loves of his life as his career. He is living by his adventurous nature and combining his passion for mountaineering and sailing. ‘Polar Bear’ run by The Polar Bear Front Company will visit the high latitudes of both hemispheres in the years to come. Exploring the more remote areas of the globe while we still get the chance as our climate changes at such a rapid speed.I am really pleased that the yacht will continue to make incredible voyages and adventures and look after people as they get the chance to explore more of the world. It is very fitting that she will almost emulate the focus that my hero Sir Peter Blake was concentrating on during his final years. I am sure Polar Bear will look after all her guests.I also had the honour to recognise some outstanding achievements from the young sailors in the country. As the next generation of sailors, it is a very exciting time to be involved in the sport, in all its many aspects. The Raymarine Young Sailor of the Year 2006 was awarded to Katie Miller for her re-enactment of Dame Ellen MacArthur’s first voyage. Katie aged 18, sailed around Britain on an identical boat, single-handed and in doing so raised money for the charity, the Ellen MacArthur Trust. It was lovely to have all her hard work and tenacity rewarded. Congratulations Katie and all the nominees. Also well done to all the regional winners. It is fantastic to see all this talent coming through the ranks and see the support from the Yachting Journalists Association.The Raymarine, YJA Yachtsman of the Year Award is taking place on Tuesday at The Painted Hall in Greenwich. It is a very special venue and a prestigious award that has been won by the greats in the industry. I am very nervous and have everything crossed, as I have been fortunate to make it through to be one of the finalists. I am in very prestigious company and feel honoured to have made it that far. I would love to be able to add my name to the list of highly esteemed previous winners. My fingers are crossed.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 05 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

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Today was the opening day of the Collins Stewart London Boat Show at ExCel London. There was a great atmosphere and the weather stayed dry and fairly mild thankfully.The exhibitors had been busy setting up for what will be a long week for them all. The Show was opened by Dame Ellen MacArthur, Alex Thomson and Mike Golding,OBE. There were some fabulous announcements made including more details on the exciting British bid for the 33rd America's Cup from Origin Team, i:shares, a division of Barclays sponsoring the exhilarating VX40 race circuit and there was a launch for the RNLI's SOS day to be held on January 26th. There was something happening somewhere nearly all day and it offered a great chance to catch up with people that I hadn't seen for ages.

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For the last two years I have missed the London Boat Show as I have been sailing in the Southern Ocean at the time. It was a pleasant change to enjoy the show in person and I had the pleasure of opening the UKSA Deck Games stand in the middle of the north hall. I untied the reef knot and hoisted the first sail timed at 29.62 seconds. I am full of cold so my standard not surprisingly was beaten early. The games themselves involve all sorts of interactive opportunities to explore the marine industry from computer sailing games to clothing and rowing. It was lovely to help open a stand that encourages the young and old alike to get involved and see what it is like.

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The Little Britain Challenge Cup that takes place in September each year raises a great deal of money for their selected charities and I had the honour of receiving a cheque on behalf of the Cirdan Sailing Trust from the LBCC Committee. It is always great to see worthwhile charities benefiting. Following a charity theme I visited the RNLI Lifeboat moored on the dock and enjoyed a tour with the Swanage Crew. They are fabulous boats and that was my first tour inside of one, it was awesome.

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I also signed up for my offshore membership on the tenth birthday of the scheme. Alex Thomson, as a member with George the Bear, was also there to recall stories of the rescue in the Southern Ocean by Mike Golding. The news of the dramatic event made my blood run cold and created a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. It was so nice to see both Mike and Alex safe ashore.I was also invited onboard the P1 Powerboat of Team Sunseeker. Aiming to bridge the gap between power and sail, Gavin and Andy with their team and myself, with my team are looking to learn from each other's training and preparation in order to get to the top of our chosen fields. Andy Wilby and I have known each other since being kids, growing up around boats with our families and it is fabulous to see them taking on the P1 powerboat circuit with Team Sunseeker.The Collins Stewart London Boat Show is fun and interactive and a great day out if you get the chance.Dee

Dee's Diary: Happy New Year to everyone!

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Last night was a long way away from last year, where I called from the hostilities of Cape Horn on my satellite phone to wish everyone all the best for the New Year when all I wanted to do was cry. The call to my mother was a turning point in my Aviva Challenge Voyage. Her words that told me of her confidence in my ability to get to the end of the voyage and return triumphant was what I needed to hear. From that moment onwards and after reading some pertinent emails from the team, describing their belief in my ability, I got my head together and became focused and determined. My confidence began to grow daily. I wanted to succeed and learnt how to deal with the battering the oceans delivered and grew to not only in my self-belief but also in my enjoyment of the voyage.Last night, I celebrated the New Year with friends and called my family by mobile to wish them well. I was in company, ate food from a plate and was warm and dry despite the horrendous weather whistling against the windowpane. It was great.I am excited about 2007 and have lots of adventures ahead of me. The London Marathon looms ever closer and the reality that I need to train hard has hit home. What a better time of year than the New Year to make the promises of better fitness training and sensible eating. Then in the summer I hope to take to my bike and get caught up in the Tour De France experience. All these will test me beyond my comfort zone yet again, but I can’t wait.I am also really pleased for Mike Golding who has a long last joined the New Years Honours list. Congratulations Mike in receiving an OBE. It is well deserved for one of our best British Offshore Solo Sailors to be recognised on his achievements and endeavours.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Wed, 27 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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What a difference a year makes. Christmas was all about family and loved ones, presents and food.This year, there was no autopilot to fix, no hydraulic oil to spill everywhere. I ate from a plate with a knife and fork rather than a bowl and spoon and I was able to give presents and watch them being opened and see people's reactions. It was fabulous.I spent the day at with my family in Chesham. I arrived on Christmas Eve having spent the day before with my two best friends, Rachel and Claire. It has been so exciting catching up with everyone, I have been like a small child getting carried away with the excitement of Christmas.I am now still with my family, recovering from the excess of food and festivities, being extremely well looked after by my mum and also spending time with my nephews. The other fun part of this week has been making my family reminisce about my childhood years as I write my book for release in the autumn of 2007. It has been enlightening and also quite frightening when your mum and sister recall stories from long ago that you have conveniently forgotten.The holiday time is already moving too fast and before we know it the new year will be upon us and we will be back in the fast pace world in which we live. I am now just enjoying each day while I have the time, as I am sure that 2007 will be full of excitement. Mind you 2006 will be a tough year to follow.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Have you ever thought of jumping in a black cab and saying, “The Palace please.”Tonight, I got to do just that. Harry and I were invited to Buckingham Palace for a reception to be given by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh.There were a few hundred people there, all of whom had in some way made a significant contribution to local or national life in 2006.There were representatives from Athletics, Charities, Research facilities and the Forces amongst others. It was nice to see some old friends like Rhys Jones whilst trying to read everyone's name badges to acknowledge their achievements. Opening up the Palace to allow us entry meant that we got a small view of a historic building.As the guests circulated various members of the Royal Family took the time to meet a few of them. Zara Philips was there not only as a member of the Royal Family but also as a sportswoman in her own right. The Duke of Edinburgh listened briefly to my story and succinctly pronounced me a nutter! He used to be an avid sailor and has some concept of sailing up wind around the world. Her Majesty, The Queen looked fabulous and she spent time greeting her guests.A year ago I was getting ready for Christmas on my own and dealing with some major technical problems onboard Aviva. I never dreamt, twelve months later that I would be supping champagne at Buckingham Palace. I was so excited that I had to get photographic evidence and as we left we found the swimmer, Ross Davidson and his girlfriend, Eleanor Whittle doing exactly the same.Eleanor very kindly took a photograph.I think this will be my last diary before Christmas. So, I hope you all have a great Christmas Day. This will be my first Christmas Day at home for seven years and this time I won't have to talk to myself.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 12 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

I attended the Square Mile Sports Awards in London on Thursday. It was an impressive luncheon with all the nominees, sports stars, media and supporting companies there. Many prizes were awarded and it was fabulous to be considered worthy of being nominated alongside some spectacular sports stars for the Female Sports Personality of the Year. I was seated next to the 8 times World Powerboat Champion, Steve Curtis. He was enlightening to talk to and I was stunned listening to him tell tales from his racing experiences. The awards were given out after an auction, which raised a substantial amount of money for the charity 'Give Kids a sporting Chance.'From this award lunch I hotfooted it to the airport where I travelled to Istanbul in Turkey. I was a guest of Aviva Turkey and I was invited to speak at the Marka Brand Conference, whose speakers included the likes of Sir Bob Geldof. I was also invited as a guest onto a Friday night popular chat show.Beyez, the host, was very kind and very welcoming, but it is a strange sensation being in an environment where you do not understand the jokes that everyone is laughing at. The launch of Aviva's Forward Thinking Campaign took place on Saturday in Istanbul and it was an honour to recount my story of the Aviva Challenge. I had a great time in Turkey and felt as if I was treated like a Princess.Unfortunately, today I came back to reality when I visited Leeds Met Carnegie. It is always fun to return to my University to meet with friends and tutors again but this visit involved some base line fitness testing. I was back in the lab, wired up to machines and running for a fitness assessment. I endured a sub max test and then a VO2 max test. Amy and Nicola ran body composition calculations and blood composition tests overseen by John O'Hara. I then had a check over from a Physiotherapist, a core strength conditioner and I also had to be honest with a nutritionist. It is quite revealing when you are asked to write down everything that you eat and drink, and I mean everything!It was a fascinating day and great to be back in that environment once more.I almost felt that I had never left apart from the fact that there was much more technology available from when I studied this area of science. The results revealed that I have a lot of work ahead of me to prepare for the marathon in April. As in so many cases, getting to the start line is in fact the most difficult part of the event.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 03 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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BBC South Sports Award Ceremony at the De Vere Hotel in Southampton revealed the winners tonight.I was the proud recipient of the BBC South's Yachtsman of the Year Award sponsored by Tenon. It was an honour to receive the award.I was also very excited as I was nominated as one of the final three for BBC South's Sports Personality of the Year Award. My fellow nominees were Rhys Jones and Graeme Murty. The three of us faced a telephone vote from the public over the last six days. BBC received record numbers of votes and the results were revealed tonight.

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I would like to congratulate Graeme Murty in becoming BBC South's Sports Personality of the Year 2006. He was gracious in his acceptance speech and paid tribute to both Rhys and myself. With both mountaineering and sailing being relative minority sports it was great to be considered in the same arena as football, which has such a huge impact with the public. Graeme did admit that playing in front of a capacity crowd and asking them to vote yesterday, may have helped the votes go his way! The numbers were close with just 2% separating Graeme and myself. I would like to thank everyone who voted. Support through the messages on the website kept me going at sea on my own for all that time and now the support continues. I am extremely grateful.

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Just hours before the award ceremony tonight I spent just under five hours running, cycling and kayaking at Longmoor Army Camp in Hampshire. It was my final adventure race of the year and we entered three teams in the Helly Hansen Weavers Down Winter Warmer Event. Team Caffari consisting of Rob Sleep, Andy Tourell and myself along with Team Kensington, led by Ian Giles and a team of Santa's Little Helpers, consisting of Jo, Vicky and Harry. We sported

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Christmas hats and fought our way through knee-deep mud, howling winds and some rain showers. Physically the cycle was tough because of the impact the night's torrential rain had had on the terrain. The lake was freezing and we ended up sat in a huge puddle for the kayaking and we also had to conquer some surprise activities, such as four legged sack racing, team ski walking and the inevitable cargo net and wall climb.All three teams ended in smiles and wet, muddy trousers! What a swift transition I made from a muddy bedraggled mess to a pretty dress for an award ceremony.Dee

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Dee's Diary:

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Last night Harry and I attended the Royal Ocean Racing Club's annual dinner at the Merchant Taylors Hall in London as guests of Mike Broughton.Approximately 200 people were there for the dinner and the prize giving that followed. They very kindly gave me a gift in recognition of my voyage in the Aviva Challenge. It was nice to see the prizewinners from this year's RORC series of races being congratulated on their achievements. The evening was a true testament to the volume of work and commitment that RORC contribute to the sailing world.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 25 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

It has been a busy week since returning from Australia and reminiscing about my year that has just passed. It has taken me until today to finally unpack and get up to date on my washing. I can confirm that my walking boots smell a little dubious with their Tasmanian mud covering that they are still wearing!I have returned to speaking engagements and have been able to share my phenomenal year with a variety of audiences. On Wednesday I was extremely honoured to be able to present the RYA Community awards to the 2006 winners.This accolade is normally reserved for The President of the RYA, Her Royal Highness, The Princess Royal. As HRH, The Princess Royal was already booked with an engagement the honour fell to me. It was a pleasure to be able to celebrate and help recognize individual commitment, energy and devotion to the sport of sailing. After celebrating the fabulous work of so many, I ended the week celebrating the work of my sister at her graduation held at St Albans cathedral.Meanwhile, in the depths of the Southern Ocean this week there has been devastating news in the sailing world. Both Mike Golding and Alex Thomson have experienced some traumatic events. The trials and tribulations the guys have faced with utter professionalism and courage is a credit to both themselves and the world of the solo sailor. The important factor is that they are both safe, despite having made decisions to abandon a yacht and recover from a dismasting. My heart goes out to them at this difficult time.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 19 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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One year ago today I departed from Gun Wharf Quays, Portsmouth in brilliant sunshine and waving to a crowd of thousands. I was about to embark on a voyage of discovery, a life changing experience and was aiming to sail into the history books. I dreamt of my name being listed amongst those I had read stories of during my childhood, whose names have structured history in the sailing world.I left the crowds with a beaming smile and excitement. It wasn't until the Monday afternoon when I reached the start line at the Lizard Lighthouse in Cornwall after dropping the shore team off at Plymouth, did I fully comprehend the dream I was beginning. For the first time in my life I was sailing single handed, and I had 29 000 miles to go. I had to brave the most treacherous waters on the planet and endure weather that was harsh and unpredictable.Time this year has flown by. I returned to the creature comforts of dry land towards the end of May and since then my life has not been the same. I have enjoyed a whirlwind of opportunities and appearances. I have had the fabulous chance to meet some truly inspirational and engaging people and also experience some diverse environments.A visit to the RAF and flying in a Hawk jet remain a highlight, but also meeting and chatting to Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman about their exploits on the Long Way Round, as well as hearing their plans for the next adventure of the Long Way Down! Battling the rugged terrain in Mark Webber's Pure Tasmania Challenge for charity and becoming a patron for Sail 4 Cancer are just some of the highlights. Getting back on the water onboard ABN AMRO One with Mike Sanderson, the newly awarded ISAF Sailor of the year and his winning Volvo Team was just awesome and an opportunity that wouldn't have arisen if I hadn't completed my voyage earlier in the year. The list is just endless and I wouldn't want to forget anyone or any special occasion.The difference a year can make has been overwhelming. I now have my own Company, website and new and exciting events happening throughout the year and this has been thanks to Jo Uffendell and Harry Spedding, who in my absence set about putting the foundations in place for me to return to. That takes confidence and a strong commitment, which building success is all about. I am now focusing on running, which I have to admit was severely lacking from my physical preparation for previous sailing races and have my sights set on the London Marathon where I will be running for Sail 4 Cancer so pledge your sponsorship early as I need all the encouragement I can get.A big difference this year will be the fact that I will be firmly on land for Christmas. This will be the first time in seven years and I am almost looking forward to the novelty of Christmas shopping One thing is for sure, I am grateful that I will not be eating boil in the bag food for Christmas.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 11 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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The end of the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge was celebrated last night at the Wrap up Party. All the teams, supporters, organisers and sponsors were there to pay tribute to the exceptional effort from the competitors and acknowledge the fantastic support we have raised for the two chosen charities, TLC for Kids and The Cancer Council.The end of the six days had resulted in some new friendships, new adventures and for most of us some life changing experiences. The camaraderie between the teams was overwhelming as we all shared and recounted the times we had together. The banter and jokes from the Challenge were laughed at and all team captains paid their respect and thanks for all those that made the event work.Mark Webber spoke to the audience about the passion and drive he has in his vision to make this Adventure Challenge work to raise the profile and funds for the chosen charities. We had endured some hardship for only six days and were now able to enjoy good food, some alcohol and also some rest for our sore muscles. The children affected by cancer do not have the choice of hardship and are required to dig deep at all times to overcome and deal with the conditions life has dealt them. It really brought it home to us and we felt proud to have been involved in a small way in helping.

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Bernie Shrosbree had some cycle shorts that were white and rather see-through when wet and offered them up for auction. These shorts had helped us complete day one, in the most difficult cycle many of us had ever completed. I am pleased to announce that they sold for $700AUS, which was for a good cause. DWS also presented a remarkable contribution of matching any funds raised up to the $200 000AUS figure which was a fabulous offer.The celebrations went on for as long as we all had the strength to stay awake, which was shorter for some than others but we really enjoyed a good night and all felt proud of what we achieved.I personally am proud of the Team SpinVox girls for giving it their all. We aimed to complete the race as a team, giving the best we could and still smiling. We finished tenth after 41 hours of exercise and with smiles on our faces.Dee and Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 10 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

THEY DID IT , WELL DONE TEAM SPINVOX!!

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Mid afternoon saw the triumphant SpinVox team cross the finish line not only for today but also for the whole Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge. We had finally come to the end of the gruelling six days that has seen us start the day about 0530hrs and finish near to midnight at times. Mind you, now we have all taken a hot bath and changed into clean civilian clothes once more and are feeling human again we can honestly say that it has been a worth while experience.Team SpinVox has suffered sore muscles, injuries and upset stomachs and have at times each had our own sense of humour failure, but have remained determined to see the event through to the end. There were times during day one when we couldn't imagine finishing six days, but as time went on during the week we actually got stronger and our competitive instinct kicked in.Last night we had an awesome kayak, with us finishing as the first girls team. It was 13 kilometres in distance and great flat water. We set a blistering pace and then slowed as we passed the first island at the halfway point, but kept it going to the end.Hot drinks and some food welcomed us before we crawled into our tent around midnight to get some rest before today's 0700hrs start.

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After a boat trip from Peppermint Bay to Wrest Point we prepared ourselves for the Hobart Urban Challenge, which was the final day of the Adventure. We began by paddling 2km to Constitution Dock, which bought back memories of my only other visit to Hobart in 2003 for the Sydney to Hobart Race. We left our kayaks and took control of our scooters to get some checkpoints at some of the local schools before a steep climb of 3km up to Mount Nelson Signal Station. Here was a transition for us to collect our bikes and cycle 10 km towards Mount Wellington. We soon realised that this section was very up hill and the mountain bike section became a walk pushing the bikes! Remembering to collect the checkpoints along the way we then set off to Sphynx Rocks on foot. Back on the bikes we cycled past Cascade Brewery to collect a checkpoint before we entered the underground tunnel to the Hospital. Once clear we ran through town collecting various checkpoints until we returned to the waterfront and had a mystery discipline to finish. We had to row a four-man boat out to a tall ship anchored in the bay to collect the last checkpoint before we could run along the dock to cross the finish line for the final time in this adventure. preparing for the cycleSome other teams greeted us with cheers and hugs as we all celebrated the fact that we no longer had to go and set up a tent and re pack a transition bag. Charlene, from Team Fosters, and her fiancé, Greg, supplied the bubbly and Harry bought the fish and chips and Team SpinVox were all smiles, relieved and full of aching muscles.I can honestly say that the team has made the week successful. Our sponsor SpinVox gave us the opportunity to come out and take part in the adventure and the girls made it happen. Rachael was the last man standing fully intact and still keeping us going, she did a fantastic job. Vicky kept us disciplined and navigated us through the wilderness of Tasmania without making us ever cover extra distance. Also Helen, who returned from injury after the walk, with drive and the competitive edge to keep us in the game and definitely in charge of team morale. We kept laughing and smiling even when times were tough. They were all fabulous and I would like to thank them all for joining Team SpinVox and helping me get to the end. I know they would also like to join me in thanking two very special men who have helped us everyday during this week. They are Harry, for always remembering the shoes and the kit at the end of the day and picking up the pieces for us all and Bernie Shrosbree for always being there. We became Bernie's Angels.Dee and Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Team SpinVox started their penultimate day at 0530 with the temperature slightly above freezing at the Lake St Clair campsite. After breakfast came another long bus ride to the south of the island to a place called Ebgin, near Hobart.Day 5 had originally been planned as a particularly tough one, but the shockingly low temperatures and very bad stomach bug that has spread through the camp has certainly taken its toll on many competitors. Race organisers quite rightly made the decision to shorten the course in a bid to push people to their limits and not beyond them.After a sandwich lunch everyone clambered into their kayaks for a 10 Km race to Bruny Island followed immediately by an 8km mountain bike ride taking Team SpinVox into 10th place.Talented navigator Vicky Wentworth then led the team around a 5km run, overtaking 3 teams along the way. Vicky, just one of the many competitors struck down with the bad stomach for the last 3 days, had just simply run out of steam by the end of this leg. Dehydration and fatigue meant that there was now a real serious safety issue for Vicky and the team made the decision to pull her from competing for the rest of the day as they were all keen for her to join them again for Day 6 and cross the finish line together. Dee then led the team on a short 2km sprint to the end of the first stage and Team SpinVox finished a respectable 8th place.

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The competitors were allowed a rest before setting off again at half past seven in the evening on another mountain bike ride followed by a difficult run along marshy ground. All that was left was the night kayak navigation taking them 12km across the Derwent River, more famous for being the finish to the Sydney Hobart Race. It was on this section that Helen Reeves and Dee were able to show their strength on the water. As it neared 11 o'clock at night, in the pitch black, Team SpinVox came into view as the first female team to finish.The teams now have a few hours to rest up in their tents before they catch a boat into Hobart for the final day of this challenge. Day 6 - the urban challenge will include a hike up and down the famous Mt Wellington and a few more surprises along the way!Come on Team SpinVox - one more day to go, you can do it!!!!

Dee's Diary:

Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Day 4 started early for Team SpinVox as they stepped out of their tents into the pouring rain. Looking around the camp it was clear to see that the race is now starting to take its toll on everyone as there was lots of hobbling and shuffling to be seen. Helen rejoined the team after her rest day, despite her painful twisted knee injury.It was onto the bikes for stage one and a relatively easy ride to get everyone warmed up, leading into a race along Ocean Beach to Hell's Gate. The teams were then ribbed across to Cape Sorell for a 2 hour orienteering session. This was where Team SpinVox came into their own and, taking a tactical decision, they left Dee to rest her ankles while Victoria, Helen and Rachel headed off into the bush. The girls entered the orienteering section in 11th place and came out triumphant in 7th position.

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Dee then rejoined her team for a 5km bike ride and 7km kayak before lunch. In the afternoon, the skies finally cleared to provide blistering sunshine for the 'surprise' railway stage - revealed to competitors at Regatta Point.Introducing the 'treadlywidget', race organisers unveiled an engineering masterpiece - a contraption that allowed competitors to use bike power to travel along the spectacular West Coast Wilderness Railway. Driven by the back wheels of two mountain bikes, secured atop an open platform, the treadlywidgets use pedal power, provided by the competitors, to push themselves along the railway tracks.The railway stage provided the team another much needed opportunity to rest a couple of team members, as each 'treadlywidget' required only two riders. Tasmanian Pudsey also put his feet up and enjoyed the beautiful scenery through the mountains.Team SpinVox made it back into camp at around 8.30pm, tired, cold but still very determined knowing that the end is now in sight with only two more days of their adventure to go.Team SpinVox & Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 07 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Team SpinVox started the day early at 5.30am with an hour and a half bus ride to Cradle Mountain. The girls were all in higher spirits after getting some much needed rest overnight and were raring to start Day 3.Due to the harsh weather conditions (snow!) the kayak section had to be removed from the course but the 6km run over duckboards remained. The hard impact and undulating course was just a gentle warm up for the 2km steep cycle incline that came next. All girls resorting to 'granny gear' for the duration and drafting well.Next up was a 6km walk around Dove Lake and then a return to Cradle Mountain where Dee needed both ankles strapped by the physio due to tendonitis.At 3pm the teams were transferred, again by bus, to Montezuma Falls to start their 17km mountain bike ride along old train lines. The route took them across a 200ft high suspension bridge and knowing how much Dee loves (!) heights we are left wondering whether it was like the scene from Shrek with Helen, Victoria and Rachel coaxing her across to the other side. That'll do Dee, that'll do!!The race moved on and competitors were faced with the daunting prospect of the famous Montezuma Falls mountain bike track. The world record holder of Montezuma, Sid Taberlay who leads the celebrity All Stars team blasted through the course, completing the 20km off-road mud-bath in just over 55minutes, in conditions even Taberlay described as “the worst I've ever seen”.Our girls did well to make it to the creek crossing at the end of the thick mud track and, after a small incline, were rewarded with a long downhill to camp.

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Bernie Shrosbree, Official coach to competitors says; “The course this year has been really tough. These guys are professional sportsmen and women who are used to pushing themselves to the limit, but it's been non-stop for three days. They even have to cook their own food and set up their tents for the night. It's no wonder they're struggling.”Team SpinVox are holding there own and at the end of another long day Dee says 'We all hurt and are pretty much in constant pain, but it just serves as a reminder of why we are all doing this. 6 days of pain is insignificant when you compare it to suffering of some of the kids we met earlier on in the week.'The Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge is a major event developed by Webber in 2003, to raise money for Australian children's charities. The beneficiaries of this year's event are TLC for Kids and The Cancer Council Tasmania's Cancer Plus program. Donations to the chosen charities can be made online at: www.markwebberchallenge.com/donations

Dee's Diary:

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

'We awoke to the dulcet tones of Bernie this morning waking up the camp. He was the last voice we heard last night and the first one this morning! Bernie's our man in pervey white lycra cycling shorts! Remarked a buoyant Dee at the start of Day 2.After a very long first day, Team SpinVox set up camp and experienced an extremely cold night under the stars. Day 2 started well with a 33km hike and the girls making steady progress at a good pace, enabling them to stay in the top half of the pack.Just as Team SpinVox were beginning to feel more comfortable, the conditions changed after the first river crossing and the team decided to opt for a shorter, but much harder route. The slippery ground proved much trickier than the girls had anticipated and slowed them down considerably.

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At transition it was time for the mountain bike section of 7km and it was a great relief for them to exchange sore feet for slightly less sore bums for a while. It was during the bike stage that Helen Reeves twisted her knee, but despite being in considerable pain, Helen managed to continue on. The route took them on a fast downhill to the second transition stage and onto the raft section where the team had a brief opportunity to sooth their sore muscles in the cold water.Team SpinVox made it to the finish of Day 2 before sun down, with the weather providing light showers and cold south westerly winds. A lack of hot water in the camp forced the girls into a less than desirable shower at the end of a very tough day.An exhausted Dee said 'It has been much harder than any of us anticipated; we all are cold and tired but still incredibly determined to get through it. At the end of each day, we are helped on by all the messages of support we get which we are able to access over here by having SpinVox on our mobiles. Our supporters can leave voicemail messages which get converted to text and when we can pick up some reception all the text messages come through from all our friends back home. It is really helping keep our spirits up.'Keep going Team SpinVox!!

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 05 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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Nine O'clock in the morning and the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge got under way. All morning Dee has had nervous energy, and was glad to be starting. Overcast and cool the teams set off on a 7 Km run, down to the first 6Km Kayak and into the City of Launceston.The first surprise event was soon upon them, and they were hurtling around the waterfront on 2 wheeled scooters. Immediately after ditching the scooters Dee had to step into the ring with the Australian Commonwealth Boxer, Daniel Geale, some people had danced around him, but that is not Dee's way. She ended up apologising for smacking him straight on the nose!

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At this point Team Spinvox were lying 7th out of 12, as they headed into the City Centre for some orienteering. One checkpoint was at the city hospital, and gave the competitors a defined break. They met some of the kids currently in the hospital for treatment, and reminded everyone of the reason why they are here.A hard hill before lunch, and Dee had led Team Spinvox into 6th.The second all female team. A gutsy and steady performance had seen the Team hold together well. A couple of teams made mistakes in navigation, but Vicky Wentworth put her orienteering skills to the fore and collected every checkpoint.

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The fun of the morning out of the way, and the teams began the start of the really hard work. This afternoon saw them head out on a 56Km cycle. Not a huge distance, but add in the gravel tracks and the 1200m climb and it becomes harder.Currently at 7pm (local), the lead teams are getting to the end of today's stage. As the light begins to fade and the rain is falling occasionally there are still hours to go for the majority of competitors. Once finished, they will have to get some hot food made up for themselves before climbing into there tents. It is decidedly chilly at the moment, so it will almost certainly drop to near freezing tonight. A tough start to the Challenge, but one that Dee and Team Spinvox are relishing.Pudsey and Team Spinvox

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 04 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

I am going to keep this short as I need to pack my kit and my equipment for the transition zone for tomorrow's 3 hour urban challenge in Launceston, before we head off on our 56km mountain bike ride.I am hoping for an early night to get some good sleep but I have to be honest, my nerves and butterflies and excitement may make sleep difficult.Today, Team SpinVox had a final cycle to get used to cycling as a team of four and then we collected our camp equipment. We practised putting up our tents, checked our food and also saw what treats were in store to eat for the next two days. Once we were happy with that, we fitted our kayaks and sorted the spray decks and paddles. A quick run through of kit with the team over the final supper and now it is time for bed.Bring it on!Dee and Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Another morning swim helped me kick start the day. Victoria joined me and avoided the inevitable drowsiness bought on by jet lag.Today is registration day and we collect some of the kit that is supplied by the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge Organisation. We will then have time to check the kit and go to town to buy any kit that we feel we may still need. The nervous anticipation is definitely growing at the Country Club Resort here in Launceston where we are staying.I have no doubt that this challenge is going to be huge. We will be on our feet for nearly eight hours a day and that doesn't even consider the time spent cycling and kayaking. We will take part in each discipline everyday and it will be approximately 14 hours a day spent getting to the next camping stage where we then still have to set up our tents and cook our own food. Hopefully we will be able to stay awake long enough to eat what we have cooked before starting the next day at about 6am by clearing our tents before setting off for the day. I am now sure that the groans at 0600hrs will begin well before the start of day four!

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The final two team members, Helen Reeves and Rachael Cadman, arrived today. We need to get their bikes fitted as soon as possible, check the kit and get a little practice in before I can allow them some rest. We will need our wits about us to pull together as a team and use all the strengths we have in each other to keep us going to the end of the six-day event. After all, this entire event doesn't finish until we cross the line on Friday night. So it will be a war of attrition and we need to be careful not to get caught up in all the excitement and peak too early.Tonight we have an official team dinner where we will get the chance to meet the competition and fuel up our energy supplies before we start on Sunday.I am sure tomorrow we will continue checking kit, getting comfortable with the equipment and trying to calm our nerves.Dee and Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Thu, 02 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

I awoke early, which was no surprise with the jet lag but felt surprisingly good. We went for an early morning swim before breakfast and that really helped me get ready for the day.

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I visited Tamar Yacht Club to meet Ken Gourlay. He is planning to set off from Launceston on Monday to sail solo, unassisted, around the globe in the right direction. I passed on any advice that I hoped would help him and also had a good look around his yacht that will be his home for a few months. You can follow his progress on his website: www.spiritsoloquest.comIn the afternoon I headed out on a bike with James Cracknell and Mark Webber who will be part of one of the more formidable teams. Bernie Shrosbree, a performance coach for the Challenge, came out with us too and I learnt some great top tips that I can now pass on to the rest of Team SpinVox. There is no doubt that we are going to have to dig deep at times during this Challenge, it will be tough. My next lesson with the team will be checking that we can all change a tyre, you never know when we may need to do it!Dee, Pudsey and BernieVictoria Wentworth arrived from the UK this afternoon and she has already been out on her bike getting used to it and stretching her legs for the challenge that lies ahead. I can't decide if I am nervous or excited, I am sure it is a little of both at the moment.Dee and Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

I departed from London Heathrow Airport on Monday night and now after a number of lost hours in the air, numerous sleeps, in-flight movies and in-flight meals we have arrived at Launceston, Tasmania on Wednesday morning.

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I believe we did stretch our legs at Singapore for 45 minutes and then again at Melbourne as we changed airlines for our final flight to Tazzie. We arrived on the same flight as Mark Webber and his family and it was good to see him looking relaxed after a long Formula 1 season, mind you having had a glance at the course booklet these next few days are going to be no easy journey.The Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge supports the charities, TLC for kids and the Cancer Council. These charities focus on helping the children and the families that are affected by cancer. Their suffering can go on for their whole life and by pushing ourselves for the next few days of the race we too will feel a little pain and suffering, however it is short lived and experienced by choice, but is able to raise awareness and more importantly donations that help in a small way.I am pleased to say that Pudsey Bear also had a good flight out here and is looking forward to joining his all female team, Team SpinVox and giving them some help and making them smile when it all becomes a little tough in the grueling schedule ahead.Now for some gentle preparation for the Challenge.Dee and Pudsey

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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Congratulations to Dee as she has just received the Outstanding Courage Award from the Variety Club.Sir Chay Blyth accepted this prestigious award on Dee's behalf at the 25th Anniversary of the Variety Club Sporting Awards - a wonderful celebration dinner on Tuesday, 31 October 2006.There were certainly no ghosts and ghouls on Halloween Night at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London. Sporting Legends were honoured for their contributions to their sport including: Willie Carson OBE (Horseracing); David Gower (Cricket, Sport Broadcasting and Charity); Steve Coppell (Football); Darren Cambell MBE (Athletics) and Alec Stewart OBE (Cricket). Dickie Davies and Hugh McIlvanney OBE were honoured for their contribution to sports as commentators too. The other woman to win an award as the Outstanding Newcomer, was Hayley Turner an accomplished young jockey.It was a wonderful evening that Dee was very disappointed to miss: Dee is currently preparing in Australia for the Mark Webber Pure Tazmanian Challenge. The Variety Club do a magnificent job for children: a charity auction and raffle raised considerable funds for the charity on the night.

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 22 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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Yesterday was the final day of training where Team SpinVox would all be together before we all fly to Tasmania for the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge.We met at Bisham Abbey in Marlow and trainer Ian Rolls had a plan for the day, however we also had a photographer and film crew with us to capture the team together before we depart to the Southern Hemisphere.Having been dogged by injury we finally have a healthy, fit and able team to compete in the challenge. Olympic medallist, Helen Reeves, Triathlete Rachael Cadman and former Army Major Victoria Wentworth join me in the team.We may not have a background of endurance events but we are very determined, focused and driven individuals that are keen to put in a competitive and credible performance. Our main focus is to complete the six-day grueling adventure with smiles on our faces, as they will be on day one.

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We began our day in white team SpinVox shirts and in no time at all they were splattered with mud, we were wet from the morning showers and hot from cycling up hill. This was a great test of experiencing what the conditions will be like in Tasmania. Our spirits remained high throughout. We have no doubt that life will be tough but we will give it our best shot.If you would like to support Team SpinVox on the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge please pledge your donations online at www.markwebberchallenge.com stating Team SpinVox. All donations received will support the event's chosen charities, TLC for Kids and The Cancer Council helping families and children suffering and dealing with cancer.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

After such a busy and exciting weekend I am pleased to report that Monday followed in the same vain. I was invited to The Woman of The Year Lunch at The Millennium Hotel, Mayfair. My invite from the chairman, Eleanor Angel, explained that they recognized me as someone who had achieved something significant deserving of an invitation to the lunch.The President, Joan Armatrading, addressed the 380 strong audience of women and celebrated the fact that the lunch was in its 51st year. She stated that, “This lunch remains unique in that we honour women from all ethnic, economic and social backgrounds and from across the employment spectrum.Every one of you at the lunch has excelled in your chosen field. We salute you. You are all Women of the Year.”The keynote speaker Martha Lane Fox echoed that uplifting speech. She was amazingly inspirational and made us all think very positively about the future. The lunch was wonderful and a pleasure to be sat amongst such remarkable women. The prizes were awarded after the lunch together with some footage from the projects the winners had been working with. The stories reduced myself and as I looked around the room, several others to tears. It really was an emotional fight connected with every story and the strength and achievements of these selectwomen were inspiring. I really felt uplifted as I absorbed the atmosphere in the room.As someone who is embarking on an adventure race and looking ahead at running the London Marathon I was truly moved by Jane Tomlinson's story. She was the recipient of the Woman of The Year Award 2006. She has completed numerous marathons; triathlons and iron man competitions as well as cycling across America whilst continuing her fight with Cancer. She is a truly remarkable woman.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

It has been a busy but fabulous weekend. It began with dinner at The Royal Southampton Yacht Club and being awarded the prestigious Wanderer Trophy.Then Saturday I was fortunate enough to be invited as a guest to the British Athletic Writers Association Dinner in London.I was a guest of Patrick Snowball, the Executive Director of Norwich Union the Company that sponsor UK Athletics and we had the honour of being sat with Dame Kelly Holmes.Athletes, journalists and other guests joined together to praise the success of UK Athletes and their aspirations for the future, looking ahead to 2012.Junior Male Athlete was awarded to Harry Aikines Aryeetey.

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Junior Female Athlete was awarded to Sian Edwards Best performance in a British Vest was awarded to David Weir Best Male Athlete went to Mo Farah Best Female Athlete went to Rebecca Lyne Seeing and hearing from the current athletes, the future athletes as well as those that have retired was inspiring and gave me the perfect environment to prepare for my adventure race the next day.Sunday saw some members of the team for Tasmania and I meet at Woolmer Forest in Hampshire for Helly Hansens Sweatshop Adventure Race. It was a huge event with nearly 400 competitors and over 150 teams taking part. I was using it in my build up to taking part in Mark Webbers Pure Tasmania Challenge in November and it was great to see him there being part of a team focused on being at the front. The race itself involved running, cycling, running, kayaking and some more running with a few surprise disciplines along the way. I completed the event in a little over five hours. It was long, tough and definitely the hardest race I have taken part in, but I finished it and I was smiling, so I am looking forward to Tasmania.

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Mark Webber on the other hand raced at the front of the pack and looked awesome as his team went past up as if we were stationary on our bikes.There is no denying that Formula 1 Drivers are fit and spend much of their time working on their fitness. He looked in his element and enjoyed the adventure and must be keen to get his own adventure race up and running in a few weeks time.Jo and Vicky that are running Team Caffari Events awarded us with some goody bags of food and drink as we crossed the line. In our bags were some foot scrub and bath soak sachets and I firmly believe that is the only reason I am still able to walk tonight. Wow, Tasmania is like that for six days that will be a very long bath at the end!Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 14 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Commodore's dinner at the Royal Southampton Yacht Club was a wonderful evening last night. I was invited by Commodore Peter Whatley, as the guest of honour along with Patrick Snowball, my sponsor from the Aviva Challenge.The clubhouse served up a spectacular dinner and during after dinner coffee the wonderful Roma Loukes enchanted us. She performed a varied repertoire from Gershwin through to opera.After the entertainment the Club presented me with The Wanderer Trophy. It was presented to me by Sian Hankinson, my watch leader from the 2004/5 Global Challenge Race onboard 'Imagine it. Done.' She had won it the year previously and it is in recognition of those that have completed worthy sea voyages under sail. My name has certainly joined some prestigious company.It was an honour to receive the award and enjoy the hospitality offered by the Commodore, the members and the Yacht Club.I am looking forward to arranging a date for a speaker supper's evening at the Royal Southampton Yacht Club, to tell the members my tales from my adventures on the high seas.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday I began the day at Southampton's Watersport Activity Centre, known locally as SWAC at the Floating Bridge, Southampton. The team for Tasmania was together for only the second time and we were scheduled to do some kayak training. We were able to use the facilities at SWAC to help us in our preparation for the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge. We got into our kayaks and braved the weather and headed up the Itchen river. We were on the water for about an hour and a half and we paddled back down the river much faster than we set off. I was impressed with the facilities at SWAC. We were made to feel most welcome and the staff were very friendly and supportive.The afternoon was spent doing an indoor triathlon at Spirit Health Club, Holiday Inn. When the day had finished I felt more confident that my teammates would not be waiting for me at each stage of the Challenge facing us.In the evening I spoke to the Trident Forum at The Royal Marines Museum at Portsmouth. It was a fantastic venue and an enjoyable evening. The members of the Trident Forum very generously donated to Sail 4 Cancer, and so my patronage for this remarkable charity is properly underway.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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Today I continued to push the boundaries and my personal limits and faced my very first triathlon at Marlow's Rowers Revenge. This event incorporated 4km on a Concept II Rower, 25km cycling through the rolling countryside of Buckinghamshire and finally a 7.5km run along the towpath following the River Thames.Thanks to The Crown Plaza Hotel in Marlow, I arrived the night before, rested well and therefore had no excuse but to turn up at the start bright and breezy. In all honesty, despite the great facilities at the hotel, I was incredibly nervous but also quite excited.Team Caffari consisted of eight competitors today and thanks to Kensington Mortgages for sponsoring the UK events in the build up to my Tasmania Challenge we were a force to be reckoned with. Ian Giles, Keith Wardell, Ray Chin, all from Kensington Mortgages, Loz Marriott, Richard Mason, Jo Uffendell, Vicky Pounds and myself all registered and were due to start in wave 7 at 1025hrs.At registration we were given our numbers and then our number was written on our arms and legs. That made the whole triathlon feel real and my butterflies in my stomach went into action.We started with the row, and then we ran along the transition to collect our bikes. Safety at these events is always of paramount importance and the marshals were not only there to guide us along the way, shout encouragement but most importantly check us for our own safety especially that our helmets were done up correctly.

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The cycle started well and the incline we reached first, felt like it was going on forever. I couldn't believe it; others were passing me as if I was standing still. How demoralizing can it get! There was the difference between their super light and sexy road bikes and my safe, chunky and heavy mountain bike. Still I had to have a word with myself and a slight reality check. Just four weeks ago I couldn't run for more than twenty minutes and here I was just seven weeks after starting training with Richard Mason, and I was aiming to finish my first triathlon. I am noticing improvements every week so I just had to complete the Rowers Revenge.

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The cycle safely over, I set off on wobbly legs for the final stage of running. At that precise time, the heavens opened. There was torrential rain, thunder, lightening, still it washed away much of the mud I had acquired during the cycle. The setting for the run was beautiful, however, I can honestly say that keeping my legs moving was my main focus until the finish line and the scenery just went past.With 1km left to run, a marshal gave me the encouragement I needed to keep going, my stride lengthened and I even managed a final sprint across the finish line. The team that had finished was there to cheer me on and I was amazed that I was still breathing and walking. Maybe I could have run faster, maybe I should have pushed harder, all these thoughts went through my head. At least now I know what it feels like and maybe next time I can be faster. I finished in 2 hours and 30 minutes and felt elated and happily wore my medal for finishing with pride. My thanks goes to Jo who helped keep me going all the way to the end and also Vicky who worked so hard to make the whole event happen for Team Caffari.Finally my sincere thanks to Kensington Mortgages for allowing Team Caffari to take part in these events and give me the best preparation possible for my future adventure in the Southern Hemisphere.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Beautiful sunshine, 1000 people, a sea of pink and some banging tunes and some fun aerobics. This was the scene yesterday in Regents Park, London for the Pink Aerobics.It was run in association with www.lessbounce.com, the sports bra company and the leading weekly, Woman magazine. For two hours we were led by some of the UK's leading Aerobics instructors and raised valuable funds for Breast Cancer Care.I was joined by Olympic kayak medallist, Helen Reeves and Grace from the Big Brother House on stage with Emma Forbes demonstrating our support for the event before we joined the crowd for the main feature of aerobics. We had a great fun in a great atmosphere.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 23 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday was a step back into the past. I returned to St Clement Danes School in Chorleywood, Hertfordshire. I was honoured to be there as a guest speaker for the school speech day.22 years ago I walked into the school for the first time as a fresh faced, keen and shiny new year seven. After spending two days getting hopelessly lost and being sent in the wrong direction from older pupils, I settled down and adjusted my slightly less smart uniform so my skirt was shorter and my tie was missing and realized that I had the place sussed.I spent seven great years at school where I excelled at sport and kept my nose clean academically so as not to miss lunchtime and after school practices. On Friday I returned to reminisce with staff about my era at the school and also had the chance to meet and catch up with former teachers and my Head teacher, Mr. Conway. I was immensely proud to see all the students not only looking immaculate but also receiving awards and playing music displaying the high standards I associate with St Clement Danes School.It was fabulous to be able to address the school community with an ability to relate to them and also an ability to inspire and motivate the students to achieve their dreams.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

I have just returned from a fabulous surprise visit to the BP BKR Team in Scotland.Last summer I was a skipper onboard Pindar's Global Challenge Yacht and took a group from BP out sailing for the day. They were on a team development course with Leading Lights and Mark Denton (BP Explorer skipper, BT Global Challenge Race 2000/1) was onboard leading the session. We had a great day with some fun sailing and a successful Strategy Challenge. During the course of the day I had been telling the team about my future plans. When I announced my sponsorship with Aviva for the Challenge, they wanted to send me on my way with a gift. They presented me with my iPod, engraved on the back, which was literally played non-stop, 24 hours a day for 178 days.The team was back together for a workshop and as a surprise I made my entrance to tell them about my adventure and join them for dinner. It was good fun and the surprise really did work. It was good to catch up with familiar faces and also meet some new members of the team. I am sure we will see them sailing once more in the near future.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sun, 17 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

On Thursday I joined the Arco Team onboard Pindar's Volvo 60 yacht skippered by Loz Marriott. We were racing in Class 0 in The Little Britain Challenge Cup, run out of Cowes, on the Isle of Wight.As a Construction Industry Challenge, the LBCC has grown in size and now hosts nearly 250 Companies on the water racing in a series of four races.Ashore, everyone can cheer the winners with trophies but also all competitors enjoy a gala dinner and fun parties with auctions and fund raising for the charities that LBCC support.Racing on Thursday saw light airs but some great time to get new crews used to the yachts they would be sailing for the weekend.

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On Friday, I had the delight in assisting Ben Fogle and Alex Thomson in opening the Southampton Boat Show. We climbed the rigging of the tall ship, 'Lord Nelson' that is owned by the Jubilee Sailing Trust allowing able bodied and disabled bodied people to experience the delights of sailing.After swinging with the Pirates in the rigging I had the honour of officially launching the new Northshore yacht, Southerly 46RS, designed by Jason Kerr. It is a beautiful cruiser racer yacht perfect for couple to enjoy the delights of blue water cruising and some performance racing.

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Saturday, I returned to the Arco team for the last day's sailing at the LBCC. We had a great sail in the longest race of the regatta, with the course sending us out to the far reaches of the Eastern Solent. We finished in second place on the water, much to everyone's delight and returned ashore to prepare for the festivities of the Gala Dinner.

A black tie evening was enjoyed by nearly 2000 people in the special marquee erected in the Yacht Haven for the event. I was fortunate to relate my sailing experiences in a five-minute slot and thank everyone there for the amazing support that LBCC provides for charities that achieve so much, such as The Ellen MacArthur Trust.It was definitely a busy weekend, but also a lot of fun.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Tue, 12 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Last night I spent the evening at Leicester Square at the gala night of the Adventure Film Festival at Vue cinema. The UK's first Adventure Film Festival is taking part at 55 locations around the country in an all-out attempt to inspire the adventurer in everyone.Most cinemas will show an extended package of highlights, Ultimate Adventures, but a selection of screens will broadcast the full compliment of films over the course of the week, covering Endurance, Ocean, High Altitude and On the Edge Adventures.Last night was a screening of Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman's cross continental motorbike trip in Long Way Round, with footage not seen in the television version. When I was sailing around the world, it was a book that I read and re read several times as I could relate to many of the emotional issues that the boys were dealing with on their adventure. It was a fascinating adventure and as I was so inspired by the adventure I also had encouragement from the 'Long Way Round Team' to the 'Wrong Way Round Girl'I got to meet both Charlie and Ewan last night and after my initial flush of excitement we spoke at length at the emotional trials we all faced on our adventures. The viewing was enlightening and the Q&A session offered by the boys provided an interesting insight into the finer details. There will be further adventures from the Long Way Round Team next year and it was clear to see the enthusiasm from the team whilst they were reflecting on what was a life changing adventure for them.Sat watching in the audience, I was definitely inspired to get out and keep challenging myself and pushing those boundaries.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 08 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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Training for Tasmania has been ongoing over the last couple of weeks. Today was slightly different as a fellow team member came down to Southampton for a training session together. We met with Richard Mason, the man tasked with getting my fitness level high enough to meet the challenge in Tasmania, and headed off to the New Forest for a run. We covered around 8 miles and despite the horrible uphill sections, I did enjoy it. The sun was shining and the horses, cows and countryside made it a great environment to spend some time in.In the afternoon we were joined by Nicky from the Company, Less Bounce, www.lessbounce.com. They are kindly supporting my team for Tasmania, in fact quite literally as they are providing our sports bras for the event and the training leading up to it. We selected our personal choice from the range they offer and tried them out. I am pleased to report all felt under control!

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I would like to thank Andy Forbes and his Sunseeker yacht, as we were able to have some photographs of us wearing our new products onboard. It was a great setting and thankfully the sun shone.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

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I have sailed around it and now I can say that I have cycled around it. That is the Isle of Wight. After six hours in the saddle I was keen to sit on a comfy seat onboard the Red Funnel Ferry. We had cycled in the increasing wind and cold rain for six hours and I can assure everyone that the Isle of Wight is not flat. In fact, Blackgang Chine and the steady incline that leads past St Catherine's Oratory was extremely tough on the legs, but what goes uphill must come downhill and boy was it worth it.I was not alone on my cycling quest today. Joining me was a very able team of, fellow sailors, Andy Tourell and Loz Marriott. Also, the youngest person to climb the seven highest peaks in the seven continents, Rhys Jones and Brian Marriott as our local knowledge and navigator.

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Jo Uffendell as the organizer of Team Caffari Events led the cycle as an example to us all and Vicky Pounds accompanied us on our journey as the support vehicle, carrying the very important fuel supplies of food and water. We mustn't forget Charlotte who cheered us on and provided the sweets when our strength was fading.I returned home cold and wet but with a great sense of achievement. Bring on the next adventure, next weekend.Dee

Dee's Diary:

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

My day started just before daylight appeared but I was excited and nervous for another sailor. Alison Dunn, a blind sailor was departing from Lymington and setting out to sail around the Isle of Wight, single-handed. Alison is hoping to raise funds for another trimaran for the Sailability group at the Lymington Dinghy Club and she has never sailed single handed before.I arrived on the dock at 0630hrs to see her off wishing her the best of luck. Alison was in great spirits and dead keen to get out on the water and get on with the Challenge she had set herself. I was in awe and very proud of her. The weather was forecast to be fair for the day and everyone supporting Alison was in a positive frame of mind. There was a great vibe on the dock and the support vessel was busy completing its checks before the sailing group left the dock.I then returned to the water myself today as I hosted some guests I met during the summer at The Lord's Taverners Charity Cricket Match in Sark. We were onboard the Global Challenge Yacht, 'Spirit of Sark.' We had a great sail, some fabulous hospitality and an enjoyable day.The great news this evening is that Alison has successfully completed her voyage around the Isle of Wight.CONGRATULATIONS!Dee

Dee's Diary:

Wed, 30 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

At midday today I had the honour of attending a reception at the Civic Centre in Southampton. The Mayor of Southampton, Councillor John Slade, greeted me. I was awarded a wonderful certificate of recognition from the City and a beautiful vase.We were blessed with sunshine, unlike my day of return when the heavens opened and we all stood beneath torrential rain.It was an honour to be recognized by all those in attendance this afternoon and have the opportunity to say a public thank you to all the people of Southampton for their acknowledgment and support for my endeavours.Now I am back in training, getting ready for the first test of my fitness in my development for Tasmania on Saturday when I embark on a cycle around the Isle of Wight. With the way the weather is looking, I will get a good idea what it will be like to cover a fair distance with numerous inclines in the rain. I just hope the weather is not as harsh as we all experienced in May when I returned home.Dee