Heather Thomas

Sailing is in Heathers’ blood, coming from a long line of mariners. Growing up in Otley, West Yorkshire, the sea was not close by, so Heather began her journey, dinghy sailing at the local lake, Otley Sailing Club, encouraged by her father. The Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation gave Heather her first taste of ocean sailing, with a bursary to compete in the Pacific Leg of the 15/16 Clipper Round the World Race. She has since worked in a variety of roles and vessels in the marine industry- from flotilla skipper to teaching young people in the Caribbean. Maiden has been a big inspiration to Heather throughout her sailing career, so to sail on her is a dream come true. Heather looks forward to inspiring young girls to dream big, a value that was instilled in her by her parents, who continue to be her biggest supporters.