Bart’s Bash Wins Hove MP’s Support

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image of Bart's Bash logo
Bart's Bash logo

By William Mills

Bart’s Bash

Bart’s Bash commemorates British sailor Andrew Simpson who won Gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics only to die in a tragic accident in May 2013.

Andrew Simpson MBE achieved fame at the Beijing Olympics crewing for Ian Percy OBE in the Star class of two handed day racing yachts by winning the Gold. The pair went on to win Silver at the 2012 London games.

Two years ago he was sailing in San Francisco Bay, California as part of Sweden’s Artemis team in preparation for the 34th America’s Cup when tragedy struck and the boat capsized fatally trapping Andrew Simpson underneath.

Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation

A new charity called the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation, set up by his family and friends,has helped youngsters and those less advantaged to take up sailing as a sport.

The first Bart’s Bash was held in 2014 with a total of more than 700 clubs worldwide holding events to encourage as many as possible to take to the water with over £366,000 being raised.

On Sunday 20th September the second Bart’s Bash is taking place and local Sussex boats are sailing between Brighton marina and the red buoy off the end of the West Pier.

Peter Kyle MP for Hove (Lab) said;

Good luck to everyone taking part in Bart’s Bash this weekend. I hope the racing is fun and that much support is generated for good causes.

Peter Kyle MP
Peter Kyle MP

 

Sailing clubs around the world commemorated Bart’s Bash including those as far afield as Bosham in Chichester Harbour and China’s Beijing Sailing Club.

Sussex sailors at Bosham Sailing Club
Sussex sailors at Bosham Sailing Club

 

beijing sc
beijing sc

Ian Percy OBE Olympic Gold and Silver Medalist said;

It was awesome to see so many boats out last year sailing for Bart. I’m really looking forward to be sailing in the event again this year, and hope to see even more people, along with their buddies, out on the water on Sunday.

Freddie Simpson with Ian Percy OBE and Anthony Nossiter
Freddie Simpson with Ian Percy OBE and Anthony Nossiter

Andrew Simpson’s son Freddie is five and already a keen sailor!

Racing in Portland Harbour
 Racing in Portland Harbour

 

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