A Boat Less Ordinary - Helsal II
by Jennifer McGuigan on 31 Dec 2005
Helsall II Simon Dryden and Bill Rawson - 2005 Heemskirk Consolidated Melbourne to Hobart race Noel May
They say that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things and if ever this was to be proven true Helsal II is an example. Whilst many in the yachting fraternity knew that Helsal II was not a 'fat wallet' boat, most like this correspondent did not know just how deep the spirit of camaraderie goes on this vessel. Here is a group of people that have come together to achieve an extraordinary aim.
Getting Helsal II into the water for the Melbourne to Hobart was touch and go all the way. People who don’t even know how to sail found themselves sanding floors, painting the hull or simply cleaning the galley. All to achieve the ultimate aim of completing The Westcoaster, winning line honours is simply icing on the cake.
Bill Rawson, skipper of this extraordinary conglomerate, calls himself lucky. This correspondent calls it work, dedication, humanity and a respect for the individual. When celebrating at a function for the crew and the army of helpers, credit was laid at the door of those who; painted, scrubbed, cooked meals or simply supported those who were doing these things.
To talk about an inspirational sporting experience in this day of corporate sponsorship and purchased wins, seems almost naïve. Maybe that is not a bad thing. Bill Rawson and his sailing master Simon Dryden, have introduced hundreds of people, not just to the sport of sailing, but to a way of life that values loyalty, dedication and hard work. No Helsal II is not run with a 'fat wallet' but rather with a deep enduring spirit.
They deserve their race win and whilst Bill Rawson will wish to deflect the honour to his crew when receiving his trophy on the 2nd of January, he deserves all our admiration. For in Bill are maintained for ever the values of a 'fair go', 'a true friend' and 'winning is not everything' and 'to win at any cost is not to win at all.'
This victory is sweet and very well deserved. So join us for the ride when Bill and his crew receive their trophy on the 2nd.
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