Harrogate man to tackle 43-day yacht race for local bereavement charity

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A Harrogate man will take part in a mammoth yacht race to raise money for a local bereavement charity.

Andy Johnston will set sail from Seattle to Washington DC in April to raise money for Just 'B', the bereavement counselling arm of St Michael's Hospice. 

Andy used Just 'B''s services after his first wife, Sarah, died of a rare and aggressive form of cancer in 2018 just ten months after her diagnosis. 

Thomas, their son, struggled with the loss of his mother. It impacted his education, but he was supported by Just 'B' in the aftermath. 

The voyage, which is one of eight legs of the 40,000-mile Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, takes competitors down the US west coast and along the Panama Canal, before sailing north through the Carribean and Atlantic towards Washington DC.

It is expected to take 43 days to complete. 

Andy said:

Thomas, now 20, is currently studying at Liverpool John Moores University and is a keen cricketer.

Andy added:

During the challenge, Andy will be part of the Team Warrant boat and will experience living in cramped quarters with fellow crew members on the 70ft yacht.

Over the last six months, Andy has lost 20kg through his training, but it has not been without its hiccups. 

He has suffered a dislocated finger, a broken rib and several pulled muscles. 

However, Andy said the money he hopes to raise will make the injuries worthwhile:

The charity relies on volunteers and public donations to continue its work supporting people who have lost parents or siblings. 

Andy is hoping to raise £10,000. You can donate to his fundraiser by clicking here.