NEWS
AGX - Mission Accomplished
Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:05:30 +0000

The final Broadly Boats Special in the Alpha Global Expedition series is now available as a free download from: tinyurl.com/59vkxp The book “Over The Top” by Adrian Flanagan will be launched by Orion in October 2008. bb.firetrench.com ftnews.firetrench.com agx.firetrench.com nighthawk.firetrench.com ftd.firetrench.com

The Tall Ships’ Races 2008 got off to a flying start
Thu, 24 Jul 2008 10:56:11 +0000

HMS Mersey will be following the fleet. Above, earlier this year when HMS Mersey welcomed first vertical (bi-polar) cirumnavigator Adrian Flanagan back to British waters after his transit of the Russian Northern Sea Route The Tall Ships’ Races 2008 got off to a flying start yesterday as the race got under way just off the northern [...]

Alpha Global meets Exercise Midnight Sun
Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:36:54 +0000

pictured left to right: Mark Giles, Andy Whitmore, Adrian, Paul Molyneux and Warren Beresford On Wednesday Adrian & Louise met with four members of the Territorial Army who are taking part in Exercise Midnight Sun which is the Royal Signals TA expedition to Greenland, one of the planets last great unspoilt wildernesses, in August 2008. The [...]

FAVOURITE PICTURES
Sat, 31 May 2008 14:18:40 +0000

We’ve finally made it home after 2 weeks on the Hamble. And what an incredibly memorable 2 weeks they have been. Of the many hundreds of pictures taken on the 21st May, these are two we particularly like. The family portrait is taken by our good friend Tina Hadley, the other by Sara Coombes [...]

AGX - PHOTOS
Mon, 26 May 2008 12:01:06 +0000

Below are a selection of family photos taken over the past couple of days - please feel free to use them. For publication purposes, a photo credit will suffice (Louise Flanagan) Reading The Times at breakfast on Thursday morning!

AGX - PHOTOS
Mon, 26 May 2008 11:55:02 +0000

Below are a selection of family photos taken over the past couple of days - please feel free to use them. For publication purposes, a photo credit will suffice (Louise Flanagan)    

THE DREAM CAME TRUE
Mon, 26 May 2008 11:35:57 +0000

  The smile that said it all - (photo - Louise Flanagan) The Alpha Global Expedition ended at 11.00am on Wednesday 21st May when Barrabas crossed the start / finish line between Calshot Spit and Hillhead in the Solent. Adrian Flanagan became the first single-handed sailor to achieve a ‘vertical’ circumnavigation of the earth. Below, in [...]

Thanks for a wonderful welcome home
Wed, 21 May 2008 15:13:37 +0000

Adrian and Louise wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone who have helped to make this voyage of circumnavigation possible, to those who sent messages of support as Adrian prepared to sail away, to those who wrote and emailed during the trip, to all of those who came to make the conclusion such [...]

AGX Homecoming
Wed, 21 May 2008 10:08:15 +0000

Anyone wishing to rendezvous with Adrian at sea made their way to the EAST BRAMBLE MARK (50 47.2 N, 1 13.7 E) between 9:30am and 10:00am today. Spectators Spectators were able to watch Adrian as he proceeded up the River Hamble between 10:00am and 11:00am. Viewing from either the Hamble or Warsash side of the [...]

Full Day Ahead
Wed, 21 May 2008 08:30:57 +0000

Today will be a very full day for Adrian Flanagan as he ends a unique voyage - an outstanding achievement. Perhaps the final course chosen was a gentle build up to today. Originally, Adrian considered leaving Norway and heading South and West around the Shetlands and the Scottish islands, along the West coast of Ireland and [...]


Over The Top
Our Sponsors

Phase 1 & Arctic Phase

  MDA's Geospatial Services provides Earth observation data, information products and services from aerial platforms and the majority of commercially available radar and optical satellites, including exclusive distribution rights to Canada's RADARSAT-1 and RADARSAT-2 SAR satellites. These products and services are used globally for resource mapping, environmental monitoring, oil and gas exploration, ice reconnaissance, maritime surveillance and disaster management.
Click here to go to Kemp Sails website   For the Alpha Global Expedition, my sails must be very durable, maintain their shape and deliver maximum lift while being easy to handle. Kemp Sails has a wealth of experience in making cruising sails. Their innovative approach to sail design and sail cloth technology means Kemp Sails can make any sail for any boat.
Click here to go to the DHL website     
    
 
DHL Global Forwarding is the world's leading air and ocean freight provider and the logistics arm of DHL. With a network of over 800 facilities in more that 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL Global Forwarding provides a diverse and enviable service spectrum by air and ocean, offering both flexibility of services and tailor made international transportation solutions. Supported by seamless IT applications, visibility is available at all shipment levels and at every phase of the transportation chain to both their customers and their business partners, allowing precision planning and co-ordination. DHL Global Forwarding are the international partner of choice. I am extremely grateful to DHL for sponsoring the shipment of Barrabas's Portland Pudgy self-rescue dinghy over from Ohio, as well as all of the other shipments they have undertaken since the start of the expedition.
Click here to go to the AARI website     
    
 
The Arctic and Antarctic Research Institute belongs to the Russian Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring (Roshydromet). Organized in 1920, AARI is the oldest and the largest Russian research institution in the field of comprehensive studies of the Polar Regions and have assisted Adrian by providing vital interpretation of satellite imagery during his transit of the NSR. http://www.aari.ru
Click here to go to Hydrovane's website   The unique HYDROVANE is a 'next generation' self steering system. It matches or betters the features of any other system for: ease of use, performance, versatility and reliability. The bonus is that is both:
  • Self Steering System
  • Emergency Rudder and Steering 'Ready to Go'.
Click here to go to the Furuno website     
    
 
Since its inception in 1948, when the world's first fish finder was commercialized, FURUNO ELECTRIC CO., LTD. has been responding to the needs of the maritime industry through developing various types of marine electronics. Today, FURUNO is a total marine electronics manufacturer operating on a global scale. Furuno have supplied Adrian’s radar system for the Arctic leg of the Alpha Global Expedition
Click here to go to the C-MAP website     
    
 
C-Map has provided Adrian with a complete, worldwide set of C-Map MAX chart cartridges.  The charts will guide him safely  back to the UK from Alaska highlighting obstacles and delivering dynamic representations of surrounding waters, with striking, colourful detail at quick refresh speeds. C-Map features tidal predictions showing the strength and direction of the tide as it is now, or for any future date/time, multi-coloured elevation and depth contours, aerial images of port entrances, and a wealth of up-to-date pilotage and harbour information. C-Map is the world leader in the supply of electronic charts, from the smallest yacht to the largest supertanker.  The information featured within C-Map charts provides unparalleled levels of accuracy and coverage.
Click here to go to the NSSR website     
    
 
The Norwegian Society for Sea Rescue (NSSR) was founded on July 9th, 1891, with a clearly defined goal – To save lives at sea. The first rescue boats, the Colin Archer-class, were introduced in 1893. They were powered by sails and oars only. Ever since, the NSSR’s boats and crew have saved over 6200 people from certain death. More than 500.000 people have received assistance. The NSSR is a humanitarian organization aiming at saving lives and recovering property at sea. Maintaining rescue services along the Norwegian coast, and neighbouring sea areas where such services may be necessary.
Click here to go to the SOVAG website     
    
 
SOVAG, specialists in Marine Insurance handle Adrian's insurance requirements during the NSR leg of The Alpha Global Expedition. SOVAG (SCHWARZMEER UND OSTSEE Versicherungs-Aktiengesellschaft) is an insurance company registered in Germany operating under German law with Russian capital. The experience gained through this unique setup enables SOVAG to be the premier partner for East-West business. SOVAG offers optimum insurance protection for both Western companies planning to expand their commitment in the countries of the former Soviet Union, and for companies in the CIS countries looking for an increasingly international basis.
     
 
The Waikiki Yacht Club is the premier yacht club in the Pacific, combining Aloha hospitality with non-stop activities both on and off the water.  It hosts such major sailing events as the Transpacific Yacht Race and the Kenwood Cup, one of the most prestigious yacht races on the world ocean racing circuit.  That series was discontinued in 2002 and is now replaced by the club’s Waikiki Offshore Races held each summer.  The club offers both junior and adult sailing programs and competitive teams of outrigger canoe paddlers.
     
 
Oakland-based Crowley Maritime Corporation, founded in 1892, is primarily a family and employee-owned company that provides diversified transportation and logistics services in domestic and international markets by means of four operating lines of business: liner services, logistics services, petroleum services and marine services. In Alaska Crowley has served the people and businesses of Alaska's Arctic and coastal area, handling fuel and freight beginning in 1896 as Black Navigation, sailing in Prince William Sound and expanding service to the Yukon and Tanana Rivers in 1916.  We serve the State of Alaska, from the North Arctic Slope to South Central Alaska, coastal communities, and inland communities, including those along the Kuskokwim and Yukon rivers.
  As many readers may be aware Musto Clothing is recognised around the world for outstanding design and performance in the most testing conditions.  Added to this, is the use of the very best technical fabrics available. Musto’s HPX fabric, used in the HPX garments, features the GORE-TEX® Ocean Technology® membrane and is universally recognised as the most durably waterproof breathable fabric available in the world today, ideal for long ocean or offshore cruising and racing.  From the North West Passage to the Southern Ocean, Dame Ellen MacArthur to the Volvo Ocean Race, Musto HPX has stayed the course whatever the conditions.
Click here to go to Satcom's website   Communications will be vital during the voyage, not only for voice and email but to receive important weather information so I need a reliable partner to maintain that link. Satcom Distribution will be with me all the way, keeping me in touch with the rest of the world.
  The reliability of the computer and the software on it is paramount for safe navigation and reliable communications. The robust, shock mounted computer, with its waterproof screen, keyboard and mouse, all runs directly off the boat's DC supply, and should be pretty well bomb proof. SmartCom gives me reliable, cost effective e-mail over the satellite phone; the weatherfax and weather satellite receiver give me vital information; and the chart plotter and charts constantly track my position.
  Founded in 1985 by Brice Pryszo, MaxSea International is the standard for navigation software in Europe and worldwide. Today MaxSea International is renowned worldwide thanks to the success of it's main product family, MaxSea Marine Navigation Software. Early adopters of this amazing new technology included Philippe Poupon, Eric Tabarly, Philippe Jeantot, Peter Blake, Laurent Bourgnon to name a few of the most renowned. Their successes with MaxSea inspired today's legends such as Michel Desjoyau, Ellen MacArthur, Alain Gautier, Loïck Perron, Yves Parlier, Graham Dalton, Mike Golding, Steve Fosset and many others to rely on MaxSea. Since its inception 20 years ago, MaxSea International has continually introduced MaxSea innovations focused on increasing efficiency, productivity, safety and profitability for seafarers in three marine markets: yachting, fishing and shipping. Today, Maxsea is available in 14 languages and is used on 25 000 vessels worldwide. MaxSea International’s extensive experience, reputation for quality, excellent service, and rich history of innovation will allow it to maintain its position of leadership in the marine navigation software industry long into the future.
  Dubarry is the world's only dedicated performance marine footwear brand. Founded in County Galway in the 1930's, Dubarry is known internationally for its waterproof and technical boots, traditional style hand-stitched deck shoes (characterised by the company's unique red and green flash), and an extensive range of active/casual shoes and boots. Dubarry was the first footwear manufacturer in Britain and Ireland to achieve the ISO 9001 International Standard for excellence in quality. Remaining entirely focussed on the production of marine performance footwear, the Dubarry brand has become the footwear of choice for leading yachtsmen and crews competing in key events and races worldwide including the America's Cup, Louis Vuitton, the Volvo Ocean Race, and Vendee Globe to name but a few.

 
    
 
"Broadly Boats is the FIRE Project portal serving the commercial and leisure maritime communities, providing an Internet on-line Information Resource for breaking news, news archives, and intelligent databases. For news and information on maritime and broadly boating topics, visit Broadly Boats. Registration is optional and free. Registered Members are entitled to a range of free benefits including: POP3 mail accounts; webmail, and; blog space. Subscribe free to the weekly news digest Broadly Boats News. This is an international community service project that welcomes contributions of news and information from our readers."

 
Click here to go to Robert Stanley Opticians website   Robert Stanley is a chain of opticians located in Oxfordshire. Robert Stanley is supplying me with Acuvue Oasys, the next generation of contact lens that will allow me to sleep without removing the lenses.
Click here to go to Exalto     
 
Exalto UK manufacture rubber lined bearings for the pump and marine industries, we also supply all types of marine equipment in the UK.  We are well respected for our quality products and technical expertise, and in 2002 gained ISO9001:2000 accreditation.  Water lubrication is environmentally cleaner than oil or grease lubrication.
Click here to go to Viridian's website   In the absence of  fresh meat, fruit and vegetables, it is critical for me to complement my diet with vitamins and minerals.  Viridian's wide range of supplements will ensure that my diet is nutritionally balanced.
Click here to go to Katadyn's website   There are many water making systems around, but none which combine Katadyn's compact design, super efficient mechanism and incredibly low power draw.


 
Click here to go to Dial A Flight website   Dial A Flight is one of the UK’s most successful independent travel agents with more than 20 years of experience. We can offer you huge savings on scheduled flights, hotels, car hire and tours worldwide. We offer a friendly and professional service, which is why people return to us to book their holidays year after year. Real people answer all calls in less than 10 seconds so why don’t you give u s a try now. To discuss your travel requirements and obtain a free quote call Marshall on 020 8261 3180.
Click here to go to Gallery Hadley's website   Gallery Hadley is set on two levels in a refurbished 19th Century Church in the centre of Thame providing the perfect setting for exhibiting contemporary works of art.
It is arguably the finest gallery in the region.
The elegant layout covers over 2500 square feet and features a wide selection of Limited Edition Prints & Original Art by some 30 different artists. Not only are there international names such as Jack Vetrianno and Rolf Harris but also a nice range of new and imaginative local talent including the extraordinary talent of Mark Eurich.

 
Click here to go to Lightfoots Solicitors website
  Hurricane Lamps, an independent light source for adventurers all over the world for over 150 years and still available today.




 
  Reflex Corporate Marking Limited are specialists in Signs, Vinyl Graphics & Digital Print and are based in Buckinghamshire with a nation wide coverage. We are an enthusiastic and flexible company with extensive knowledge and wide experience of all aspects of signage and image implementation. Dealing with companies of varying sizes and needs, coupled with our experience, spanning nearly 30 years, has enabled us to work with and overcome all of our client's sometimes problematic requirements. We aim to provide our clients with a comprehensive portfolio of services ranging from the creation of initial designs through to production and fitting of the final product. Priding ourselves on working with our clients at every stage, we can fully meet their specific requirements on supplying only top quality products and services. Naturally the importance of meeting challenging (and sometimes changing) delivery Schedules and deadlines is a part of this service.




 
Sponsors of Phase 1

Click here to go to Timberland's website
 

 
Click here to go to GUL's website
Click here to go to DMS website  
Click here to go to the Barton Marine website  
 
Click here to go to Marlow's website  
Click here to go to the Crewsaver website  
Click here to go to Tacktick's website  
Click here to go to Blakes Paints website  
Click here to go to UKSA's website  
Click here to go to Creative's website  
Click here to go to Ecover's website  
Click here to go to Duracell's website  
Click here to go to Fluke's website  
Click here to go to Powerade's website  
Click here to go to Clipper's website  
Click here to go to Princes website
 
Click here to go to Shippam's website
 
Click here to go to Cadbury's website  
Click here to go to the Heinz website  
Click here to go to Mornflakes's website  
Click here to go to De Cecco's website  
Click here to go to the Mcdougalls website  
Click here to go to Gillette's website
Click here to go to the Gillette Mach3 Turbo website
 
Click here to go to Oral-B's website  
Click here to go to Nivea's website  
Click here to go to the Johnson's Baby website     
 
Click here to go to Silk-Stockings website     
 
Click here to go to Strings And Things     
 
Click here to go to Silk-Stockings website     
 
Click here to go to Wellers website