Ben Rogerson starts Round Britain & Ireland Solo Attempt

Ben Rogerson & 'Mini-Minx' cross start-line of Round Britain & Ireland Solo Non-Stop Record Attempt in support of 'Toe in the Water'

Yesterday's planned start was delayed due to technical problems with the boat's water ballasting system. A disappointment for the many supporters, who were out to see Ben off, but all were pleased this problem was identified before he set off.

The team worked with Ben late into the night to successfully rectify the problem, clean up the boat and restow all the gear and equipment.

Ben set off from the dock at Shepard's Wharf, West Cowes on the Isle of Wight just after 0830 hrs BST today 08 July 2009 and started his run up to the Royal Yacht Squadron Start Line at 0900 hrs BST.

On the water Steve Sleight and Sara of 'Cowes Online' were once again out supporting in the Camera Platform RIB, which is a familiar sight to all those racing in these waters, capturing a record of the start for TV, Cowes Online website and YouTube.

Brian Thompson (Vendee Globe 2008 Open 60 'Pindar' skipper), another Cowes based sailor, who is working with the support team on weather and routing during this Round Britain and Ireland Solo Non-Stop record attempt in support of charitable organisation 'Toe in the Water', was on the platform of the Royal Yacht Squadron, along with Ben's mother Sue and several local well wishers and supporters, to see Ben cross the line and wish him a safe journey.

Peter Scott, Signalman of the Royal Yacht Squadron, gave a single blast on the Signal Horn as Ben and 'Mini-Minx' crossed the line and noted the official start time as 0912 hrs 11 secs 08 July 2009.

Setting off down the Solent heading West with 15 knots of NNW breeze Ben has a couple of days of fine sailing to come on his way to his first turning point south of the Scilly Isles where he turns North West heading for the South Coast of Ireland.

More to follow soon and keep watching Ben & 'Mini-Minx' progress on the website www.benrogersonracing.com