Last summer, thanks to the generosity and support of the Black Mountains Lions Club who helped fund the trip with a donation of £500, Penry Herdman joined the Jubilee Sailing Trust with the aim to assist a crew of disabled veterans to sail around the North Island of New Zealand aboard the Tenacious, (a Tall Ship specially adapted to cater for people with all types of disability). Penry was supporting Adam who sustained injuries in combat while serving in the British Army.
After flying out to New Zealand, Penry joined the crew in Auckland and embarked on a seven-day sail around the North Island and surrounding isles. His shipmates for this sail were from all walks of life, including veterans who had suffered injuries during active service. Disappointingly for the 1st few days there was very little wind so time was spent getting to know the ropes and acquiring their sea legs.
Having never sailed before, he and a group of friends from college learned the necessary skills required to sail a Tall ship, from knot tying to feeding the entire crew. During their time on the ship they also learned what life was like for their disabled ship mates and assisted them with day to day tasks. Everyone had the chance to reach the Crows Nest apart from Penry who unfortunately was on watch! Everyone took part in producing meals in the specially adapted galley.
Days on shore allowed them to visit the local island of Waiheke, where they were taught how to evacuate handicapped personnel on life rafts. Afterwards they sampled some of the local delicacies before returning to the ship for their final day of sailing. Not only was Penry presented with a once in a life time opportunity, he had also been informed of the difficulties faced by 15% of the world’s population.
In the words of Penry: “I am eternally grateful for the opportunity provided by the Jubilee Sailing Trust, as well as the £500 funding and support from the Black Mountains Lions.
This experience is one I will always treasure and I am extremely thankful to those service men and women who made extreme sacrifices in order to keep us safe.”