Summer 2021
Navigating our way through this Pandemic has been tricky for everyone. It has affected the Sailing industry hugely, but as ever human endeavour always brings positives from a crisis. For me, Ross Brady, it led me to pursue my dreams.
Having finished a wonderful Season working in Greece, I was excited about the prospect of seeing my family. With the boats laid up for the Winter and Greek sun fading I took a few days to head to the mountains before departing for the UK. Reflecting on what a wonderful time I had working with a range of clients over the Summer 2020 I felt lucky that despite Covid, the safety protocols we had in place had allowed us to continue with our Season. As I sat in the Greek countryside away from the news it was delightful to enjoy the peace of the mountains. The reality of what was to come was at this point a lifetime away. Leaving the peace of the Countryside, I discovered lockdown was being introduced once again in the UK so I made a PLAN B. My friends from the marines were embarking upon a row from the Canaries to Barbados in order to raise money for the Royal Marines. They were due to fly there from the UK, so I switched my flights and headed to the Canaries to assist them in their preparations. Having known them from my days of service, we have a unique bond. I felt lucky to have this time to assist in the pre voyage preparation, but also to enjoy a few beers with them. In early Dec 2020 they set off and have since completed their voyage and have raised over £45K for this charity. For more information on their expedition please go to this website www.cockleshellendeavour.com
This last-minute trip to the Canaries meant I avoided lockdown two in the UK and then returned home in Dec. During this time, I was with my brother and my mum spending many happy days. In addition to this I also visited my grandad who himself is a former marine. I feel that although lockdown has placed many restrictions on us all it has also made us appreciate how lucky we are to have the people we do in our lives, with this I mean my grandad. We spent many days together catching up. He is someone who has inspired me and still does as he reaches his 80’s. His approach and positivity towards life, keeping fit and being a good soul is endless and spending time with him inspires me only more to live my dreams.
Post that time with my family as 2021 evolved so did the changes of plan! With Vaccines being rolled out and World events affecting the sailing industry I had to be more adaptable than ever. I had to up my game further and compete with the madness. Life is about the right mindset and I was not going to let a Pandemic put a stop to my boating plans.
As I write this coffee and backgammon are helping me shape my next steps, some exciting ones ahead. Be part of the journey and watch this space for more Scally adventures!
