Jules Verne Trophy - Brian Thompson's achievement to be recognised

by Vicky Pounds on 4 Feb 2012 Jules Verne Trophy - Briton Brian Thompson was helmsman and trimmer onboard Banque Populaire V, skippered by Frenchman Loick Peyron, exactly one month ago when the ultimate round the world speed record was smashed.

At 23h 14m 35s - local time on Friday, 6 January 2012 the giant Trimaran, Banque Populaire V crossed the line completing the Jules Verne Trophy in 45 days 13h 42 m 53s.

Brian will be speaking publically for the first time at the event about his remarkable achievement, and will be joined by family, friends and fellow sailor, Geoff Holt MBE as he accepts his Honorary Membership from the Island Sailing Club.

Very special guest, 13-year-old Natasha Lambert, will also join Brian as guest of honor. Brian met Natasha in 2010 during Cowes week, when Brian took part in racing with a group of disabled sailors organised by the Even Keel Project. Natasha, who has Athetoid Cerebral Palsy, was partnered with Brian, they had a great race and Natasha was hooked! Since then Natasha has been following Brian’s sailing career, as he is now her sailing hero along with Hilary Lister.

Amanda Lambert, Natasha’s mum commented: 'Tasha feels very privileged to be invited to the event on Saturday and see Brian receive his Honorary Membership. So inspired by Brian she now wants to follow in his footsteps and challenge herself to sail solo. This is something we never expected, so even we have been amazed by Tasha’s enthusiasm to sail. Such inspiration is infectious!'

Natasha’s ambition is to sail solo around the Isle of Wight and is looking for funding to make her dream come true. Brian will be donating the proceeds from the event to Natasha in a hope of making her dream a Island Sailing Club website