ROSS WILLIAMS
“This was not my first trip up to the Needles with JC. We had visited this amazing British lighthouse a few years before, so we were both aware of the dangers that lay ahead in the waters around the most westerly point of the island. Strong tides and rough seas make for pretty challenging sailing, even for a seasoned pro. On the other hand, I think this is what drew me back at the first opportunity, the thrill of an exciting trip, a chance to step out of my comfort zone and do something a little different.
After dropping JC and Fatima off to catch their boat I drove a few more miles to my launch site. When I arrive I could see the tall cliffs out in the distances and, as I started to prepare my gear, I could feel rushes of excitement pump through my body. As the boat came into view I was already to go and I jumped on my board and began to work my way up the last few miles of coastline. The wind was West with a pinch of northerly in it too, meaning quite a close beat that called for a few quick footed tacks to be made in the turbulent waters.
