Ellen MacArthur - Born 1976
British Yachtswoman
Added to the album by Gavin, A Wonderful Man
For feats of extreme endurance, and as a test of character against overwhelming odds, solo sailing the Atlantic and then again around the World take some beating. Ellen managed to do both, through thick and thin, and in record times, as we witnessed in her much-parodied but complulsive video diaries. Massive effort and courage, and a great inspiration.
Gavin
When Gavin suggested Ellen MacArthur to the Wonderful Women album, it was one of those times when I thought "Yes. Why didn't I think of her?" - she really embodies the spirit of this celebration of women; daring, individual, groundbreaking, strong.
Ellen's passion for sailing started at an early age, indeed she saved her pocket money for years in order to buy her first vessel. She began competing whilst still a schoolgirl.
Ellen has broken a good number of world records in sailing, and still holds some of these records today. Among her many achievements are; sailing from Plymouth, UK to Newport, Rhode Island, USA in 14 days, 23 hours, 11 minutes in 2000, she set a new world record for a transatlantic crossing by women (7 days, 3 hours, 50 minutes) in 2004 and she fulfilled the incredible task of breaking the world record for a single-handed non-stop circumnavigation of the globe (71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes 33 seconds ) in 2005.
Ellen has now retired from her sailing career, she has since founded the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, which helps children and young adults aged between 8-24 to regain their confidence, after suffering with cancer, through sailing. The charity not only teaches sailing skills but also organises sailing trips for those recovering from illness.
Once again, a Wonderful Woman who has not only been amazingly successful in one career but has also chosen to use her success and notoriety for the good of others. Her strength, courage and vigour really are exceptional and she is a perfect addition to this album.
In weak moments I always turn round and get strong.
Ellen MacArthur
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