Intrepid adventurer Rotarian Alan Priddy and his young crew received a lively welcome home this week after their two-year voyage around the world.
The crew of historic yacht Lively Lady sailed into Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth on July 5th, cheered on by new RIBI PresidentIan Thomson and the hundreds of well wishers who gathered at the docks to greet them.
In April 2004, Alan instigated the Lively Lady project, sponsored by Raymarine and a host of other supporters including 16 Rotary clubs, in an effort to replicate Alec Rose’s famous solo sail around the globe in the yacht in 1968.
After treating Lady to some much needed care and attention, Alan chose 30 young adults, who had showed utter commitment anddedication to the project, to help crew the boat and each sail a leg of the circumnavigation. His idea to have young adults as crew members originated from Sir Alec’s desire to use the boat to prepare young adults for life.
Jay Williams, 24 from Portsmouth was one of the lucky young men who took up the final leg of the voyage. "From the very first time I attended one of the meetings about the Raymarine Lively LadyProject, Alan told everyone that this day would be with us forever", he said. "It is thanks to the support of Rotary clubs around Great Britain that everyone on the team has gained so much and we cannot thank them enough for everything they have done for us".
President Ian Thomson awarded each crew member and co-skipper with a framed certificate in recognition of their inspiring achievements. Alan Priddy was also bestowed with a Paul Harris Fellowship in appreciation for his exceptional service and his belief in the Rotary’s educational programs.
Upon acceptance, Alan – a member of the Rotary Club of Southsea Castle – commented: "I did not see this one coming and I am very honoured to receive it. This confirms that we have the basis for an ongoing youth project and with the support of Rotary in the World there are no limits to what we can achieve next time".
For full details of the Raymarie Lively Lady project, visitwww.livelylady.net.
11/07/08
