Our charitable objectives include supporting both the Forces of the Crown and Vulnerable Adults. It was therefore a privilege to meet both objectives with a recent 2 day ‘taster’ sail, funded by the Nuffield Trust, for the Always a Rifleman Programme (AARP). Set up 4 years ago, the programme supports members of The Rifles regimental family grappling with the challenges of mental well-being on leaving the Army. The motto of The Rifles is ‘Swift & Bold’ – hence, by military tradition the ‘taster’ sail was named Exercise BOLD WATER 1.
This ‘’taster’ sail for 4 Birmingham and Wiltshire Veterans (pictured) enabled Rifles management to assess the practicalities and confirm the benefits of Boleh’s ‘can-do’ experience. Similarly, Skipper and Mate volunteers Bruce and Ant – both Army Veterans – were able to confirm the Trust’s ability to meet programme requirements. Instruction within Portsmouth harbour on day 1 and a lively sail to Osborne Bay and back on day 2 were well received and the AARP have asked for a further 3-day sail in October. With thanks to those who made this exercise possible, we look forward to BOLD WATER 2!
