Barton Marine is sponsoring Team Ausome-Lyra to compete in the 2019 Fastnet Race.  The charity Ausome is embarking on an epic challenge to provide nine autistic sailors the chance to participate in the testing 608 nautical mile Rolex Fastnet Race.  

Ausome, is a registered charity promoting the personal and social growth of individuals of all ages who have Autistic Spectrum Conditions through an exciting programme of sailing.  The Fastnet crew will be a diverse selection of both experienced and novice sailors.  The only criteria is that entrants have to be on the autistic spectrum.

Barton Marine have provided all the necessary deck equipment required for the team’s Nautor Swan 431, kindly loaned by owner Miles Delap. The crew will be getting very familiar with the full assortment of size 7 single, double, triple, fiddle and snatch blocks, alongside new Genoa Cars to get Ausome-Lyra in peak racing condition.

For 80 years, Barton Marine has been designing and manufacturing world-class blocks from its factory in Southeast England.  Suitable for both racing and cruising sailing, the range of Barton blocks are renowned for their durability and strength, making them a great choice for use during challenges like the Fastnet Race. 

Suzanne Blaustone, Managing Director of Barton Marine, commented: “We are very proud to support Team Ausome in undertaking this challenge and giving the crew of autistic sailors such a once in a lifetime opportunity.  Providing the chance for these young adults to get into sailing and marine activities will help to progress their social skills and teamwork in a world that often excludes their involvement. ”

The whole Barton Marine team are fully behind the Ausome crew’s endeavour.  Team member Emma Dawson’s, six year old daughter Juno is also autistic, so the sponsorship has a particular resonance for her.  They will both be cheering the team on, with Juno hoping to be able to compete in a similar event when she is older.

To discover more about the charity Ausome and the Fastnet Challenge they have set themselves visit www.ausome.org.uk.  Donations can be made to the Ausome Fastnet campaign through: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/LottieHarland