What sailors do for charity

This time last year, Darren Cauchi and Nicky Sammut spent a gruelling 50 hours in a Topper dinghy, during the Vikings Sailing Club annual marathon. The endurance test should have been enough to make them say "Never again!" but Darren is all set to try again, this time accompanied by Matthew Camilleri. Both are just 17.

The aim of the marathon is to raise money for a charity - this year, Puttinu Cares, the fund helping children with cancer, as well as to promote sailing as a hobby or sport.

The club will have a number of dinghies, rigged and ready, all manned by trained sailors. These will be available to take visitors out for a half-hour sail around Marsamxett harbour, supported by all the necessary safety considerations from lifejackets to a rescue boat.

"The idea is that people make a donation in return for the chance to enjoy a wonderful summer morning or afternoon," vice commodore John Sammut said. The marathon will be opened at the Vikings premises in Haywharf (near the AFM maritime squadron) on Friday at 5 p.m. by Deputy Prime Minister Tonio Borg.

A number of events are being organised including a buffet disco night on Saturday and Mass on Sunday at 9 a.m. Lunch on Saturday and Sunday are also available although reservations are required.

www.vikingsailing.org