Fresh challenge

She's crossed the Channel, now quadralegic sailor Hilary Lister plans to go Round Britain

Hilary Lister, the first quadriplegic to sail solo across the English Channel will this winter be finalising her plans to sail round Britain. Having secured specific support from Pindar, the print and electronic media company, Hilary has been able to appoint a Project Manager for the venture.

Hilary, 34, from Canterbury, Kent, overcame severe physical pain when she navigated her way solo across the English Channel in August 2005. Able to move only her head, eyes and mouth, Hilary used a sip-puff controlled 26 foot Soling keelboat, loaned to her by Pindar, to sail the 22 mile course. Her latest goal is to circumnavigate Britain in a series of stages, beginning on the south coast next summer.

Hilary has confirmed the support of a number of parties to enable her to begin planning her next voyage and is actively seeking further support in all areas of her campaign. Pindar, who have been affiliated with Hilary since she first met Emma Sanderson (née Richards) in January 2005, continues to support her by funding her recently appointed independent Project Manager, Kels Gilkison. Kels, who was involved in the organisation of the 2002-2003 Around Alone solo round-the-world yacht race which Pindar’s own Emma Sanderson took part in, will manage Hilary’s website and fundraising in the run up to Hilary Lister’s Round Britain Dream. Hilary has identified the boat in which she will sail round Britain; the Artemis 20, built by Vizual Marine in Chichester, UK, and given to her by Artemis, one of the UK’s leading investment companies and sponsor of Brian Thompson’s Open 60 campaign. Having secured support for her most basic requirements, a yacht and project manager, Hilary now continues her quest to secure support in all other areas of her campaign, from RIB fuel to food, and from motorhomes to telecoms.


Hilary commented: “My round Britain project is about getting out there and showing that anyone can fulfil their dreams. It is a huge personal challenge on many levels and one which will bring great rewards. I am delighted that Pindar is continuing to support my adventures in funding Kels as my Project Manager, but I know there is so much more we need to do to make this dream a reality. The new website launched today details some of the things we need in order to undertake a project such as this. In taking on this new challenge, I am also in the process of setting up a unique fund named ‘Hilary’s Dream’. Hilary’s Dream will enable me to continue to help other people to achieve their own sailing ambitions and enjoy the sense of freedom and exhilaration that I am addicted to. My boat is almost complete, the sip-puff equipment is currently being fitted and she should be ready for a test sail in the New Year.”

Find out more about Hilary Lister's Round Britain project here

Read about Hilary's cross channel passage here