THIS September a Wells wine dealer will be swapping his corkscrew for a compass to raise money for two charities.
Richard "Ricardo" Evans will sail the first leg of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race – from London to Rio de Janeiro – to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and Prostate Cancer UK.
The Clipper Race is the world's longest ocean race, involving a new matched fleet of twelve 70-foot racing yachts.
The ethos of the race, which brings together individuals from all walks of life, is the importance of teamwork and mutual respect, and of learning how far you can push yourself emotionally and physically.
Richard said: "Prostate cancer kills 11,000 men a year, but if detected early there is a good chance that it can be completely eliminated.
"Early detection starts with a simple blood test. I had a brush with prostate cancer myself and was fortunate to benefit from early detection and the care of the angels at Macmillan who hold the hands of millions of people every year who face cancer.
"I am doing the Clipper Race to increase awareness of prostate cancer and to provide some practical help by raising as much money as possible for Macmillan and Prostate Cancer UK.
"I also want to encourage every man out there to get the simple blood test done – come on guys, it's not rocket science, but it could save your life."
People wishing to donate money to Macmillan Cancer Support and Prostate Cancer UK can do so via www.ricardoracestorio.com, where more information about the race and Richard's story can be found.
The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race 2013-14 will start from St Katharine Docks, London on Sunday September 1 and will return almost one year later.
