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kristinSailor Yegane Guley had been windsurfing for just under one year when she decided that she was going to race in the HiHO - quite a challenge for a novice sailor. Not only did she complete the race, she raised money for charity while doing it.
The HIHO 2006 Memoirs
I had been windsurfing on an off for a year and wanted to take part in the Highland Springs HIHO. It had been nearly 3 years since my last fund raiser efforts in aid of UNICEF. I thought it was the perfect time and event as no one has done the Highland Springs HIHO in aid of a charity before. Attempting the event at my level, however, was shear stupidity and I thought there is no rational reason for me to go through this grueling week without having a worthy cause. Plus BVI ExPats could certainly spare a few $$ for those less fortunate than us. They just needed to be reminded or pushed. I knew from experience I have no problem for begging for people less fortunate than me. I gathered that I could easily get a couple of thousand dollars from my circle but I set myself $3500 target so I end up with $2000 definitely. Sent out a massive e-mail on Friday before, 30 June, with a sponsorship form attached to it to everyone on my e-mail contact list- lucky people! The campaign started but I was still not 100% sure whether I should really do or could Highland Springs HIHO.
Saturday 1 July - Back on the water after two weeks battle with the flu
After being bed ridden for a week and then keeping away from any activity to recover for event properly for a week (that makes two weeks!), I finally made it in to the water. Sadly, my performance of two weeks ago when I got into the foot straps for the first time was nowhere to be found. One of the regulars at Nanny Cay, who knew I was bed ridden the week before, had not seen me for two weeks near any windsurf gears let alone spots, asked if I was really going to do it? I said yes. He did try to look normal and hide his disbelief but I knew what he wanted to say “Good luck my friend!” but he did not. After all he is an English man!
After a couple of up haul in the flat waters of Nanny Cay lagoon I was exhausted. I lasted about half an hour. There was no power in my arms. Totally demoralized, I went over to Trellis after collecting the Techno II board from the Highland Springs HIHO gear container to practice, hoping to do better and sort out gear/sails with Jeremy of BVI Board Sails. The Trellis bay outing wasn't that great either, but at least I lasted more than half an hour. It was a relief, but failed to sort out the sails because I didn't check what sizes were available at the event's gear container! Doh…
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