The Raymarine Lively Lady Project is on course for the triumphant return of the yacht to Portsmouth's Gunwharf Quays on July 5, 2008: 40 years virtually to the day after Sir Alec Rose sailed her back into Portsmouth Harbour at the end of his pioneering solo circumnavigation.
Many events are being planned for the homecoming with a 1968 theme: there will be a classic yacht display, scooters, motorbikes and cars from that period.
Lively Lady is at present in Melbourne refitting, while seeing out the prevailing bad weather.
The skipper and originator of the project, Alan Priddy, is thrilled that the Rose family - the Australian contingent of sons, grandchildren and great grandchildren - are taking charge of the refit and organising the departure, scheduled for January 14.
This circumnavigation by Lively Lady is carrying out the wishes of Sir Alec Rose in enabling young adults to take part in and experience blue water voyaging.
The young people have to do a lot of personal fund raising to finance themselves on the voyage. The crew is changed for each leg to give as many youngsters as possible the chance to take part.
The enthusiastic bulletins sent back by some of those taking part make good reading. The message that comes through strongly is that the spirit of adventure has been well and truly awakened - just as Sir Alec intended.
For more information visit
www.livelylady.net and
www.livelyladyfundraising.org.uk
