As parents we have been closely involved with the build up for the 2009 Indian Ocean Race and would like to say a huge "thank you" for all the support that Guy and Andrew have received from a number of family and friends as well as numerous people from so many walks of life who have given either money or goods and services required for the venture or just their time, advice and support.

Although it is only four months away, it still seems to us impossible to comprehend how and why, Guy and Andrew have set this huge goal in their lives to row the Indian Ocean. However, as Guy's parents, looking back perhaps there were a few signs as to his determination to push himself beyond normal expectations testing his endurance to the extreme!!!

As Ben Saunders told us in his speech at the Boat Launch, back in September- "There are very few people who set themselves this level of personal Challenge"

We feel privileged:- thank you Guy for giving us a chance to share with you the Indian Ocean Race challenge; and to visit parts of the world that have so far passed us by. We are proud to have you as one of our son's - we should add here a big thank you to Tom, Guy's elder brother, who has acted as his mentor and encouraged him along every step of the way. Guy and Andrew, along with all your loyal supporters and sponsors, from the bottom of our hearts we hope you achieve your goal in 2009 and return safely in Flying Firkins in record time.

Christina and Nigel Watts December 2008