Ainslie and Dee, patrons

British Sailing Heroes show their support for Sail 4 Cancer

Sail for Cancer are extremely proud to announce that Olympic star Ben Ainslie and round-the-world yachtswoman Dee Caffari are both to become patrons for the charity. Both sailors have already raised funds on behalf of Sail 4 Cancer, which, in addition to funding cancer treatment and research, also seeks to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, their families and carers through the provision of sailing opportunities.

As one of Britain’s most successful Olympic sailors, Ben’s focus for the future is to combine competing in the America’s Cup with the quest for another Olympic medal in Beijing 2008 in the Finn class. For a cause like Sail 4 Cancer however, he is prepared to take some time out of his rigorous training schedule. “I am honoured to have been invited to be Patron to Sail 4 Cancer, having regularly watched them at sailing events tirelessly raising funds for cancer treatment and research. The work Sail 4 Cancer carries out to take cancer patients and their families out on the water is only to be admired. I hope as a Patron I can help to raise more awareness and support for this deserving sailing charity," he said.

As the first female to sail solo around the world, non-stop, against the prevailing winds and currents, Dee Caffari is an inspirational sportswoman. This November she will lead an all female team in the Mark Webber Pure Tasmania Challenge, before returning to the sea. Ultimately she would like to set another world record by becoming the first female to sail solo around the world in both directions. In the midst of aiming to achieve these ambitions, however, Dee will also be campaigning to raise funds and awareness for Sail 4 Cancer, a cause she truly believes in. “It is an honour to have been asked to become a patron for the charity Sail 4 Cancer. Since their start 5 years ago, the charity has grown rapidly and has helped to raise not only general awareness, but the much needed funds required to help people living with cancer and their families. I am looking forward to becoming actively involved, both in terms of fundraising and contributing towards the future growth of Sail 4 Cancer as a charitable organisation,” explains Dee.

Sail 4 Cancer Chief Executive Connie Carroll is thrilled. “We are extremely grateful,” she comments. “To have both these sailing heroes, Ben and Dee, on board will give the charity an incredible boost. With their enthusiasm for our cause and appreciation of what we do, they will be invaluable to Sail 4 Cancer.”

For more information about Sail 4 Cancer please see the website at www.sail4cancer.org or call 0845 408 1849