MS Sailing Charity Oceans of Hope launches first-of-a-kind challenge. Over 100 people with multiple sclerosis (MS) will set sail from Port Solent Marina over an action-packed two weeks, June 30 – July 14.

The Sail the Solent challenge is the first time an event of this scale has been attempted in the UK. The challenge, which launches at 10am on June 30, will set sail each day at 10:30 am from Port Solent, with 7 participants and MS on board the sailing vessell Kotari.

A mix of experienced sailors and complete novices will join the challenge, supported by a crew with MS or first-hand experience of the condition. While exploring the stunning waters of the Solent, the crew will help participants build strength and confidence and challenge their limitations. For newly diagnosed people, the challenge is an opportunity to experience new possibilities and connect with others with MS in a social environment.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone with multiple sclerosis to try and explore possibilities after diagnosis. We want to encourage newly diagnosed people, in Hampshire and beyond, and their carers, to get involved in this unique event and challenge themselves in a way they thought impossible.” Oceans of Hope, UK CEO Robert Munns

Oceans of Hope, UK, is a charity that supports people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in improving their mental and physical health through sailing. Sailing endeavours such as the Sail the Solent challenge provide participants, many of whom will be newly diagnosed, with a sense of camaraderie, friendship and mutual understanding.

For many sailors, this will be their first taste of sailing, an opportunity to discover the restorative and regenerative power of being on the water. It is hoped that the Sail the Solent challenge will be an opportunity for many to take the helm and ignite a new journey of self-discovery and a life of new possibilities.

Natalie Turner, who lives with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), is looking forward to setting sail:“My first sailing experience was in October 2022, followed by another memorable sail in November 2022. Now, almost two years later, I’m thrilled to be joining likeminded individuals on my next Day Sail and rediscover the joy and liberation that sailing brings. 

“I may have forgotten some of those nautical knots but I’m confident with the support of the crew that I’ll quickly find my sea legs again and be helping onboard, whether it’s pulling up the anchor, raising the mainsail, or simply making cups of tea for the crew, I’m ready to embrace every special moment on board and I’m extremely grateful to Oceans of Hope UK for making this possible and for continuing to make a profound difference in the lives of people with MS.”

Over 80% of the charity’s first-time sailors joining challenges such as this continue to attend day sail events or progress their skills through other sailing events and qualifications. As well as guaranteeing sailors a fabulous time, the chance to make lifelong friends, and the development of skills, some ‘Sail the Solent’ participants will use this two-week challenge to raise £1 per nautical mile and help the charity make a difference to even more people with MS. 

For more information on Oceans of Hope, visit the charity’s website: www.oceansofhope.co.uk

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