VocaLink sponsors local teenager to sail around the world single-handed

22 May 2008: VocaLink, the Rickmansworth-based payment transaction specialists, today announced it will be sponsoring Michael Perham, a 16 year old Hertfordshire boy, in a record-breaking attempt to sail around the world single-handed. Michael already holds the record for the youngest person to sail single-handed across the Atlantic, a record he broke in January 2007 at the age of 14. Now he hopes to follow in Dame Ellen MacArthur’s footsteps by sailing around the world.

Commenting on the decision to support the challenge, Richard Cooper, Marketing Director at VocaLink, said: “We are delighted to be associated with Michael’s record-breaking attempt. Michael’s ambition and courage is inspirational. Anyone who saw Dame Ellen MacArthur’s account of her voyage around the world will know how difficult this will be. As part of the local community we are proud to have the opportunity to sponsor him.”

VocaLink is one of several sponsors whose support will help purchase and refit two 50-foot yachts for the challenge. Michael and his father, Peter, have secured some initial sponsorship but still need just over £700,000 before he can start. The four month voyage will start when Michael sails from a southern port in October.

Peter Perham, said, “We’d like to thank VocaLink for their support and we hope other local organisations will also lend their support to help raise the funds needed for the attempt.”

Production company Somethin’ Else is creating a 90 minute documentary to be shown on Channel 4 which follows Michael’s progress from training and throughout the voyage which is set to start this autumn. 

Anyone interested in sponsoring Michael should visit http://www.sailmike.com/ for further information.