Tomorrow those taking part in the legendary Harbour Dash organised by The Official Test Centre will all have their own personal reasons for taking part, today we remember Will Houghton, whose memory the dash takes place, in this weeks blog I talk to Will's dad, Richard Houghton who set up The Will Houghton Foundation in his sons memory and inspired by his son's love for life and adventure.
Will was a much loved son and brother, Will was motivated and confident, Will had a passion for life and his belief that we should all strive to be the very best version of ourselves was infectious.
Cycling was an essential part of Will's life and he rode for the simple joy of riding, fresh air, great countryside and the thrill that only being on two wheels at speed can bring. Will was enjoying the second year of his degree at Portsmouth University when he had his accident. Will lived in the fast lane, it is just the track was far too short. On Thursday 28th of January 2016, Will was knocked off his bike near Portsmouth and tragically died on the Friday, he was 20 years old.
There is still time to take part in The Harbour Dash and raise as much money as we can for The Will Houghton Foundation and in turn help youngsters across Weymouth and Portland strive to be the very best version of themselves. Let's all get Dashing to raise money in Will's memory!
By Emma Nicholson.
The money raised by the Harbour Dash. Where does that go?
Richard said: "All the money raised supports charities that help underprivileged young people reach their potential through sport and education. We work with Will Mackaness Trust and The Official Test Centre locally to build confidence by teaching them to swim, sail, and windsurf.
Why should people sign up to take part in the harbour dash?
Richard said: "The dash is, first and foremost, a unique event with a long history, and thanks to the OTC team, your chance to safely challenge yourself and your mates to windsurf, foil or wing across Weymouth Bay and back. It is nine miles of fun! And you are helping local charities at the same time.
What does it mean to you as Will’s dad that in his memory so many young people can experience life changing opportunities?
Richard said: "Will knew he led a privileged life and had a strong social conscience. I love that we are keeping his memory alive through his foundation. He would love that we are using water sports to help young people. And he would have loved thrashing me in the dash!"
Will you be taking part in the harbour dash?
Richard said: "Yep! It’s a good challenge for me and a chance to see if my foiling has improved since last year."
Do you think the record will be broken this year?
Richard said: "Looking at the forecast, I’m not sure it will be record-breaking this year. But new record or not, it will be raising funds for local charities and great fun."
If you would like to take part in the iconic Harbour Dash tomorrow, here is all the information you need. Competitors will set sail across Weymouth Bay on September 21 2024 with a Le Mans-style start at Overcombe Beach.
Sailors will race across Weymouth Bay into the North shipping channel of Portland Harbour, out of the East channel, and back to Overcombe Beach.
Organised by The Official Test Centre (OTC) the dash is open to windsurfers, wind foilers and wing foilers and raises funds for the Will Houghton Foundation (WHF).
There is a suggested entry donation of £25.00, with all proceeds going to WHF.
To enter, contact The Official Test Centre (OTC) on 07817 717904.
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