JRA members may wish to be aware that the March 2012 Edition of Yachting Monthly has a main "Cover Story" entitled "25 cruising heroes and the adventures that insprired us all.  Paul Gelder salutes 25 cruising sailors who have inspired him and encouraged generations of others to follow in their wake."  Paul Gelder is the outgoing Editor and this article is his swan song.  His heroes include: 

• "Mike Richey.  Mike and his tiny, spartan junk-rigged Folkboat, Jester (once owned by another sailing hero, Blondie Hasler), were icons of the sailing world.  This modest, amiable, distinguished scholar of the sea would be amused to be on any list of heroes.  But he made 13 solo Atlantic crossings(the last one at the age of 80).  Mike was a loner, but never lonely.  Last but never least.  He avoided the spotlight but could not avoid becoming a legend.  Making a voyage well, rather than reaching your destination fast, was his philosopyy.  He died, age 92, in 2009." 

• "Annie Hill.  Annie is perhaps best known as the author of a dangerous book called Voyaging on a Small Income, which covers the practicalities and philosophy of blue water cruising and firmly demonstrates that lack of money is no excuse not to enjoy the liveaboard long-distance sailing.  She spent many years sailing on Badger, a plywood 34ft sailing dory, built with Pete Hill.  She is currently living ashore in New Zealand fitting out her latest boat for more adventures."

Congratulations to Annie and fond memories of Mike, RIP.  JRA members bask in reflected glory!