Benefit of flares to Round the Island race competitors

25/06/2024

Carrying flares helps Round the Island Race competitors to be found and rescued more quickly if they get into trouble.

So says Lymington RNLI volunteer Declan O’Riordan.

Focus on safety

“To all competitors, my message is to focus on safety first and foremost. One of our challenges on the day can be finding the casualty vessel calling for help in what is a wall of yachts. Whilst a description such as ‘a white yacht with white sails’ might narrow it down a bit, a sail number, orange smoke flare, or accurate GPS position will help us get to you much quicker.”

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution provides safety cover and assistance to the Island Sailing Club’s Round the Island Race on Saturday 15 June. The RNLI is also the Official Race Charity for 2024.

Declan says, “I joined the RNLI primarily because of my lifelong connection to the sea. Growing up around boats, I’ve always had a profound respect for the water and an understanding of its challenges. This early exposure instilled in me a deep appreciation for the work of those who ensure maritime safety. After I moved to Lymington, a place renowned for its maritime heritage and active sailing community, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to get involved. Joining the RNLI allowed me to give back to the community and contribute to a cause that is close to my heart. “

Honour to be race charity partner

He says it is an honour to be the charity partner for the Round the Island Race. “This partnership not only highlights the crucial role of the RNLI but also helps us generate essential funding and support. The increased visibility and support from the race will directly enhance our operations and capabilities at lifeboat stations, ensuring we continue to provide top-notch services.”

Race Director, Dave Atkinson, says, “The Race Team, RNLI and Coastguard have worked closely together since the first Round the Island Race in 1931 to operate a safe race for all the competitors.

“We are incredibly grateful for the safety cover and assistance that the RNLI station teams provide on race day and so we are especially pleased to announce that all the donations raised will go to the seven stations involved in the race and specifically for the training of their volunteer crews.”

The image of Declan O’Riordan is credited to the RNLI.

Source: RNLI