WHAT A DAY! AN AMAZING DAY! - 30 08 09
Thanks to everyone who turned up to see me arrive at Portsmouth! It was certainly a very special moment for me. I couldn’t believe the amount of people that lined the harbour walls, all the way along the bay! I heard the huge cheer as I held up the flares and was fit to burst with happiness, no one could take the smile off my face, that's for sure!
I was careful not to do too much shouting off the boat this time, I didn't want to lose my voice like I did on Thursday when I crossed the line, not good for the waiting TV crews now – it would have been like a silent movie!
I feel so very honoured by my reception, the flotilla of boats in the Solent with crews shouting messages of congratulations, as well as the thousands of people waiting at Gunwharf. Not to mention the army of photographers - I don't think I've ever seen so many cameras in one place! I really do feel a sense of pride, and not just for me, but also for everyone who has really made this happen for me and made it such a special adventure. Without my mini-army of sponsors, especially, Totallymoney.com, Vocalink, Skechers, Kemp Sails, Mastervolt, Hill Dickinson, Underwriting Risk Services, and the High Group but to mention a few, none of this would have ever happened, full credit to them for believing in me and my family. They believed in our adventure and it's thanks to their passion that we've got to the finish. Because it's not just me doing this trip, it's WE. The big team behind everything numbering hundreds of people and they’ve become more like family than just sponsors.
Huge thanks also to all my friends and family who’ve been so supportive throughout the whole trip. They've always been happy to take a call via satellite phone and have a good chat and it's meant a lot to me being able to do that. On another note, but still a note of thanks, I'd like to thank everyone who has commented on my blog or sent an encouraging email through to me. These comments always made me smile and never, ever failed to lift my spirits - they have genuinely made a big difference, especially in the tougher moments of the trip. I read every single one that comes through and I've always felt very touched by your warm messages, so thank you!
I picked two charities close to my heart that I wanted to support and raise money for on this trip and thank you to everyone who has donated to them; it really does make a big difference. If you haven’t already noticed the link on the bottom left of the website, click on it and have a look. The Tall Ships Youth Trust tries to get as many people out on the water sailing and it's always a fantastic feeling, to see a child’s face light up when they feel the water move beneath them for the first time. As for Save the Children, well they do what it says on the tin! They’re out there doing fantastic work, saving the children!
Anyhow, I'm very much looking forward to sleeping in my very own bed tonight which won't be rocking about all the time and making strange noises and whooshing sounds like running water. It's been an incredible day and one I'll never, ever forget that's for sure.
©MikePerham2009
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Mike...
You've been a class act from beginning to end of this epic journey. Finally, the recognition that you so richly deserve. I am staggered by the number of comments from people on here...every continent except Antarctica has written here.
Thanks so much for sharing your extraordinary gift with all of us around the world. I'd be honoured to sail with you if you ever come to Canada to sail the Great Lakes.
God Bless Mike and, may the dolphins always watch over you.
Comment by Dan Drimmie near Toronto on August 30th, 2009 at 8:50 amHi Mike,
Comment by Gerry on August 30th, 2009 at 10:15 amI came across your adventure and your weblog at the very end of your journey. You have accomplished so much during this adventure. You really do inspire other people. Reading your blog and all the things that happened during your journey really gave me a good day. Knowing that there are people like you daring to live the dream. Magnificent.
I know you're ashore know and that the journey is over but I'm sure you live other dreams.
Thank you so much for uplifting morals through your courage, endurance and smile which you never seems to lose not even in the top of a mast.
I'm not a sailor but do understand the dream and the journey.
Have a good time and see or hear you later.
Dear Mike,
Comment by Bruno on August 30th, 2009 at 10:19 amthank you so much for the emotions, all the things I've learned from you and the teardrops that the pictures from your arrival at Portsmouth caused at me. I'm touched from the incredible adventure you (and your team) started and brought to a brilliant end. I wish you a deeply recreative time now and hundreds of happy hours with your friends and family that you deserve so much. If you ever will be in Germany, please let me know. It would be a great honour for me to shake your hand.
Bruno, 38
from the Baltic Sea (54 06'23.7"N, 10 48'37.5"E)
Well Done Mike. A fantastic achievement by you and your team. I've thoroughly enjoyed tracking your progress over the months and whilst I couldn't be happier to see you home safe, I, along with thousands of others, will miss following your wonderful adventure.
What next...?
Comment by Stewart on August 30th, 2009 at 11:04 amYou might be enjoying the warm bed, just watch out for the bucket of water shower in the morning
Couldn't believe how many people there were there yesterday, I couldn't make it down as my dad isn't able to travel at the moment. But when you go on your next adventure I will be there... got to meet you someday.
Welcome home Mike!
*big hugs*
Comment by johnboi on August 30th, 2009 at 12:54 pmA Perpective seen from the point of view of
one blogger who followed Mike
throughout his Voyage.
Written at Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth,
7.30pm Saturday 29th August, 2009
---------------------------------------------------
EVERY DAY marks the end of something and the start of something else. Sometimes it is so inconsequential that it goes by without notice. Today, however was different - probaly for a lot of people.
All over the globe, like minded souls have been attached to their computers following Mike Perham's progress around the world via his website blog from November last year to his festive homecoming at Gunwharfe Quay today.
Some just observed to start with but gradually as more and more found a voice, they joined in with their own contributions and comments on Mike's progress. Some like me, replied to Mike's blogs almost from day one and became habitual contributors.
Interestingly, people's comments were at first encouraging, but guarded. Despite Mike having a 'previous record', so to speak, of a solo transatlantic crossing at the age of 14, that voyage was accompanied by his dad, Peter, sailing in a boat behind his tail all the way.
This was altogether a different proposition. An open 50 yacht, designed for long distance racing conditions, able to keep up with the weather or, hopefully, slew away to the side to skate around bad weather. A big, fast, boat for a young man to handle - an unknown quantity.
As time went on, and we heard of problems with the automatic pitol and the rudders, we were privy to seeing how this young man would cope with seeing his initial dream of a non-stop voyage shattered by these set backs.
His matter of fact 'Englishness' began to show and we had the privilege of observing Mike as he dealt with each problem - waiting up in Portugal, Cape Town and Tasmania and Panama for equipment to arrive so that vital repairs could take place.
In that time, the guarded comments on his almost daily blogs receeded and you could see more and more like-minded people desperately wanting to help with his mechanical problems.
As Mike went throught the process of growing up from a 'mad keen' teenager to a 'Young Man of the Sea', so we bloggers also changed and grew to respect this approachable individual and his Dad, Peter and family.
The last few weeks have seen an almost club like atmostphere on Mike's website with supporters blogging regulary from all over the globe.
Today, some of us lucky ones had the opportunity to be at Gunwharfe quay to join in, amid a frenzy of media attention, the celebration of Mike's return to his home port after a triumphant, eventful and memorable trip. - Many more, however, were with us in spirit to enjoy the day.
Indeed, it has been suggested that Mike was never 'Solo' at all. After all he had 'us', the bloggers, sitting with him in our armchairs, taking up much needed cabin space, eager to come up with some maybe useful - or more likely useless - comment... but never being exactly practical!
Today is the end for us 'Armchair' enthusiasts and we will miss the fun, the cameraderie and the 'cosiness' of it all. But it is without a doubt the Start of something for Mr Michael Perham.
CONGRATULATIONS MIKE.
P.S. I went down to the quayside to say hello/goodbye to Totallymoney at 8.30 this evening.
A fine stallion, asleep in the stable...
But without a fine rider...
Just another boat really.
It was a very strange feeling...
Comment by Jonathan Martin on August 30th, 2009 at 1:25 pmWell done Mike,
MASSIVE congratulations from the Barter family, we've loved following your progress from start to finish, and have thoroughly enjoyed reading your blogs, which have bought your adventure to life, for those of us not bold or adventurous enough to do it ourselves! What an incredible achievement.
I'm actually gutted we missed your arrival yesterday, we got back from France late on Fri night, when we left, you were due to arrive whilst we were away. I spoke to my dad yesterday about you, and he mentioned you'd got back safely a day or so earlier. Imagine my horror, when I heard the lunchtime news yesterday, saying you'd just arrived at Portsmouth!!! I think my dad meant the official finish line, anyway, I'm really sorry we weren't there to welcome you home, and gutted for us and our boys, that we didn't get to see you. You captured the imagination of our boys, Freddie and Toby, now 7 and 5, they often asked about your whereabouts, and loved watching your video clips. I really hope they get the chance to meet you someday.
Anyway, thanks Mike, for inspiring us all, and allowing us to follow your dream so closely, I'm sure you have a hectic time ahead of you, but hope you're able to enjoy some quality time with your family, away from the media glare. I was in tears when I saw a clip of you hugging your mum yesterday, she must be so relieved to have you home safe. I've thought of her often since you left in November, she must have been delighted to have you sleeping in your own bed last night! We just need you to write your book now, we'll definitely make it to your signing!
What a great role model you are young Mike, we wish every happiness in your future ventures,
Best wishes,
Sally, Dan, Freddie and Toby xxxx
Comment by Sally Barter on August 30th, 2009 at 1:56 pmHey, congratulations Mike! [:
Comment by yvonne on August 30th, 2009 at 2:44 pmTake care,
Yvonne
Mike,
Comment by Mike Browne on August 30th, 2009 at 3:45 pmCongratulations! I've followed you almost since the beginning of your trip. I have to say you are one of the most mature 17 yo's I've ever come across. Your unflagging optimism and sheer joy being out at sea was wonderful to behold. I wish you the best of luck in whatever you decide to do next.
Mike
Hello Mike
I am so disappointed that I didn't get to Portsmouth - I've got flu. I so, so wanted to be there. Instead I watched you on the BBC, you were late!!! - tsk!! - the poor reporter was having a right job thinking of things to say to pass the time!! And I had tears because the Perham family looked so proud. You really do look like your mother, don't you!!!
In life, there are three types of people. There are those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what the bloody hell happened. There is no doubt where you are...
I wonder what you will do next - I did hear talk of the Olympics 2012, I posted once that you are a modern Ranulph Fiennes, but I'm sure you'll work all that out for yourself once you've had a rest.
I can't tell you how much I admire your courage, your positivity, and your strength. I have so enjoyed following you. Your sponsors have been great. But my abiding memories will be with the sight of the Perham family at Portsmouth: your grin, your dad's delight, your mum's obvious relief, and your sister's great pride in little brother.
A job well done, my friend:)
Ed
Comment by Ed on August 30th, 2009 at 4:16 pmMike, Welcome home!
Comment by Garry T on August 30th, 2009 at 4:50 pmWe made it down to Gunwharf yesterday, and so please we did. Thanks for "hanging about" in Torbay, else we wouldn't have made it. (Home from USA on Thursday) Travelled down to Portsmouth Friday night to make sure of a front seat at Gunwharf. My 4 year old daughter kept asking, "where's the man with the boat"? and my 2.5 year old daughter recongnise Totallymoney.com on your web site. My wife was cheeky enough to ask for your autograph, and I was proud to be able to shake your hand. Thanks for a very special day for my family yesterday, and for the last nine months, when first thing in the morning we checked on your whereabouts and progress. My 4 year old often sat on my knee requesting the "Southern Ocean 22 03 09" video. (What music is that?)Brilliant! We will check your web site to see when the book is out. (What were your favorite title suggestions?) - Moonbow - !!??
What happens to Tottalymoney.com now? Your sure to miss her.
Once again Mike, CONGRATULATIONS, well done to you, your family and your team. Will look out for further news, and adventures!
Best Wishes
Garry T and Family. (Birmingham)
Hi Mike and Mike's team
Well done to you all. I must confess that I had to wipe away a tear when I heard you were safely berthed in Portsmouth.
It 's been a pleasure and a privelege seeing the boy growing into the young man, tackling the task you set yourself. Thank you.
"Home is the sailor, home from the sea
And the hunter is home from the hill"
Best wishes for all your future endeavours.
SUERTE
PETER
Comment by PEEJAY on August 30th, 2009 at 6:04 pmHiya Mike,
What a fantastic day for you and the family yesterday! I certainly enjoyed the spectacle.
I arrived fairly early (08:30) at Gunwharf Quays and in so doing was able to say hello to your Mum! It wasn't long before the press and TV guys started to turn up in numbers and set themselves up and then the crowds started to build.
I picked my viewing spot next to the little marquee on the promenade directly above the jetty where you would be tying up and as it happened so did some of your family and friends! We then waited for your arrival and were entertained by a local youth steel band who played in the marquee.
You eventually came into view with the sails put away, towed and shepherded by a couple of ribs (to bring you alongside the jetty) with Dad steering and a by now reduced flotilla. You lit those flares and waved them, a cheer went up from the crowd followed by spontaneous applause and waving and the sound of horns and you came in. Totallymoney.com was made secure (she looked great), you took off your jacket and a Union Jack was placed around your shoulders and the champagne was opened and sprayed around by you on the foredeck (more cheers, waving and horns), you faced the microphones and cameras and never seemed to stop grinning and waving to the crowd!
(Apparently, because of the numbers of press people and immediate family and close friends there were concerns about the weight on the jetty and it possibly going under water!! Hence the press were divided into two groups.)
A banner was held up by your two best friends displaying "Welcome Home Mike" and your Mum went aboard. Another emotional moment as the two of you hugged with lots of "aahs" from around me. A bubbly Fiona greeted you and then Dad joined you. More pictures, more brief questions. Then that great man of solo sailing Tony Bullimore shook your hand and congratulated you...
Time for Take Two. The first lot of press were ushered away, replaced by the second lot. A orange smoke flare (all that was left) by request from the press was let off by you and you were right, not a good move (cough, cough) but I guess the pictures wanted were got before you quickly dumped it in a bucket! Another bottle of champagne was produced and opened and sprayed over the deck by you. I did notice a slight withdrawal of the cameras at that point in case you got a bit carried away, but it was all fine!! More pictures and questions....
Then it was time to step ashore (time schedules to keep to) and did I see a sway or waver? Nope! Amazing! A quick short walk off the jetty and onto the prom through the crowds, who applauded you, to the small marquee for a presentation by the Portsmouth City mayor, a few words from you in return and then a large framed certificate was presented to you from the man from the Guinness Book Of Records. Then off again to the Tiger Tiger (restaurant come bar) for the press conference before going back to the boat for more interviews and live broadcasts to the different networks and involving family and friends and meeting more dignitaries....
Eventually it started to quieten down a bit and a plate of burgers and chips was given to you and Dad. You both sat on the foredeck to grab the chance of a bite when..."Hello Peter, Hiya Mike".... Yes, it was me! A quick handshake to both and a few brief words before its off you go to the cockpit for a film interview with the BBC girl followed by the Telegraph newspaper reporter and camera man.
I managed a long close up look at the boat from the jetty, from bow to stern and up the mast. Yes, it is a long way up there to the top! I could also see one of the rudders and imagined you cutting away the rope underwater that time....
It wasn't long after that interview that the removal team moved in, family and friends again, and the process began of removing your 'stuff'. Aha, the famous beanbags, the Cussler novel (did you finish that?), the food, DVD collection, bag after bag, box after box, and a guitar (did you play it?) and somewhere I guess some chocolate.... A quick photo-call of all the helpers was taken on the jetty and yes,(fist in the air) I stood amongst them!
Your Mum was standing on the foredeck.... "Hi Heather, me again. Could you take a couple of pictures of myself with Mike? Yes, of course" she replied. You were very obliging but I could see, not surprisingly, a bit of tiredness creeping in. But what a star, you turned on that magic smile as I got to stand next to you on board Totallymoney.com shaking your hand.....
Well Mike, you have certainly climbed a mountain, so to speak. I wonder what mountain it will be next. Enjoy the Sunday party at home and it would be great to meet you again. Cheers.
Neil A.
P.S. The above is dedicated to Mike's blog followers who were unable to be at the homecoming or who live abroad
Comment by neil arnott on August 30th, 2009 at 7:43 pmMike, I "sussed" out the Gunwharf Quay
via Google Earth and created in my
mind's eye the site of your great
celebration at dockside. Wish I was there!
I hope a few of the many photos get
uploaded to "Google Panoramio".
Today I appreciated blog follower
Jonathan Martin's recap entry:
"A Perspective seen from the point of view of
one blogger who followed Mike
throughout his Voyage"
Personally, I really worried about
your welfare out there. I did not want
you to make mistakes. I followed the
Vende Globe Race and I knew of too many
potential dangers. So your success,
to me, shows you had exceptional skill,
fortitude, and maturity!!
Congratulations to you. Your sponsors must
be proud of their investment!!
Mike.
Comment by Mike on August 30th, 2009 at 8:22 pmMike:
Comment by Frank Perry on August 30th, 2009 at 8:42 pmI followed you all the way.
Godspeed on future endeavors.
Looking forward to DVD and/or book from you.
Frank Perry
Georgia, USA
Well done - followed you on your site from day one and loved it every time I watched the videos and viewed the photos. Enjoy your rest and thank you for the updates. Jane
Comment by Jane from England on August 30th, 2009 at 9:10 pmThank you Neil for the account of Sat. for those of us who couldn't be there.
Comment by Bev Cagle on August 30th, 2009 at 9:29 pmCongratulations, Mike! Many thanks for taking us along!!
>California
Comment by Bruce W on August 30th, 2009 at 9:51 pmHUGE THANKS to Neil Arnott!
Your post of the Celebration Day read better than any journalism - print or video - that I saw.
As I live in Seattle, I couldn't be there for the arrival. Fortunately you were there to capture it all.
Your dispatch is much appreciated.
- Grant Fjermedal, Seattle
Comment by Grant Fjermedal on August 30th, 2009 at 9:53 pmHi Mike
It sounds like you had a terrific day yesterday! It must have been an amazing homecoming! Congratulations again!!
I was so disappointed I couldn’t be at Gunwharf Quays and join in the welcome. Haven’t been able to watch the TV coverage either, apart from the short video on the BBC website, so I do hope there will be a DVD coming along soon. Yes???
)
I expect you have a busy schedule ahead of you but hope you were able to enjoy relaxing with your family today.
Best wishes.
Elizabeth
PS: Thanks to Neil Arnott for posting his ‘news report’ for those of us who couldn’t be there.
Comment by Elizabeth (UK) on August 30th, 2009 at 10:09 pmSpecial thanks to Jonathan and Neil who shared their first-person views of being there at the homecoming celebration. For those of us who wanted to so badly but were separted by thousands of miles. it gives us a good sense of what it was like. And, a completion of the armchair journey we've just enjoyed. Thank you so much!
Also, especially the info about how the boat would be cleared out and when it was going back to its owners... I was wondering about all that but it was hardly important enough to bring up yesterday. My curiosity is satisfied!
Comment by Alan on August 30th, 2009 at 10:27 pmThanks Jonathan and Neil for your accounts of the Portsmouth homecoming. It was a fitting way to end this journey and means a lot for those of us who live the other side of the Atlantic and couldn't be there or find adequate coverage by our media here.
Comment by Dan Drimmie near Toronto on August 30th, 2009 at 11:47 pmThe power of the internet to join us around the world, is amazing.
If only Shackelton had had this venue.
Just to say a quick "thanks" To people who have posted up yesterdays events. I really really wanted to have gone, but couldn't make it. I followed the blog from about a week before mike set off and checked on it every day, replying on most days. I really would have liked to have met him, but hopefully some other time. I think he has become somewhat of a hero to a lot of people. The days seem quieter now... cant wait till the next adventure.
Comment by johnboi on August 31st, 2009 at 12:35 amMike & Peter
Your bloggers have been so kind with their wonderful comments.
I have tried all day to put 4 edited videos of you homecoming on U-tube but Orange have told me it's the current weather that's causing the problem, signal-wise, and I'll just have to be patient.
For all of you aboad, in Canada, Dan, and elsewhere, please be patient. I'll do what I can.
JM
Comment by Jonathan Martin on August 31st, 2009 at 3:37 amThanks Jonathan.
Comment by Dan Drimmie near Toronto on September 2nd, 2009 at 3:44 amhi mike....
I'm aldo form mexico...
I'm really impressed by your feat... is very rewarding know heros like you, who pursue the dreams.... and achieve it...
You are an example to folow.... Now I'm
congratulations...
if you come to mexico contactame....
(jacobo_learning68@hotmail.com) if you can add me...
I do not speak very well English even.... sorry haha....
Comment by aldo jacobo on September 12th, 2009 at 8:57 pmsorry...
now i'm transmitting your feat by e-mail with my friends and knowns..
good luck
Aldo
Comment by aldo jacobo on September 12th, 2009 at 9:01 pm