Blind faith

Blind adventurer Mark Pollock to sail Round Ireland Race doublehanded

Daft Media Group is to sponsor a racing boat in this year’s Round Ireland Yacht Race. Daft will be backing blind adventurer Mark Pollock and Air Corps pilot Mick Liddy, in their bid to make offshore sailing history as the first double-handed crew, with one blind member, to compete in the Round Ireland Yacht Race.

Daft joined forces with Mark Pollock last year, when he came on board as Daft’s brand ambassador, spearheading the company’s expansion into Northern Ireland. Daft has achieved rapid growth in Northern Ireland, signing up 85% of agents’ properties on the website in less than six months.

This summer however, Mark’s focus will switch to a different kind of challenge and with the support of Daft.com, Mark will be sailing 1,400km around Ireland, for six days non-stop.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Mark said: “Securing a sponsor in these challenging economic times is very difficult and we feel extremely lucky to have the Daft brand behind us. For me, this competition is going to be the most challenging yet, as I will be operating the boat in two-hour shifts for the duration of the race. Unlike my previous challenges, I’ll be completely unguided. Having the support and backing of a sponsor like Daft.com means that I can focus entirely on the training and the race, knowing I have the Daft team right behind me.”

David Garland, Sales Director, Daft Media Group said, “I truly admire Mark as an individual and the manner in which he approaches every challenge he takes on. His commitment and determination to succeed is an inspiration to us all. We’re delighted to be in a position to be able to support and sponsor Mark and Mick in this high-profile sailing event.”

The Round Ireland Yacht Race, now in its 30th year, starts on 20 June 2010. Mark Pollock and Mick Liddy will sail double-handed in a Class 40 racing yacht against Ireland's top offshore sailing teams.