Yachtsman Nick Moloney has an extra burden as he races to beat the solo, non-stop Vendee Globe record: the fact that his father is seriously ill with cancer.

Nick is helming his Open 60 Skandia in a bid to raise 42,000 (pounds sterling) for the charity Sail 4 Cancer. That is a pound for every kilometre of the course.

Nick said ‘I have been a Patron of Sail 4 Cancer for 18 months. My father, who is a Director of Sail 4 Cancer in Australia, has recently been diagnosed with cancer of the liver, lymph nodes and lungs. My Dad’s initial diagnosis was a term that could expire prior to the finish of my journey. I know that he will see me finish this, because he believes in the quest and the dream. This will keep him strong’.

To make a donation contact Sail 4 Cancer. Their website is www.sail4cancer.org