Bermuda Sloop raises $125,000

SATURDAY, MARCH 3: The Bermuda Sloop Foundation raised more than $125,000 for its youth programmes with Pirates of Bermuda.

A group of hostages were captured over a month ago tasked with raising their ransom or they would have to walk the plank.

Part proceeds of the funds raised will go towards the medical expenses of 15-year-old crewmember Nahge O’Brien, who is currently fighting Leukemia.

Yesterday Albuoy’s Point, Sir Richard Gozney and Founder, Malcolm Kirkland read aloud their fate of either having to ‘walk the plank’ or being allowed to pay their ransom and get safely off Spirit of Bermuda.  

Family, friends and colleagues had the option of choosing which pool of money they wanted to donate towards.  

Eighteen hostages ended up walking the plank.  

Denise Riviere, executive director said: “This has been an awesome fundraiser. 

“The community had a lot of fun holding the fate of the hostages in their hands. 

“I am always excited about how much our community is willing to support our youth programmes. 

“Our Character Development Program has touched so many lives that individuals and corporations have been more than willing to donate to our hostages’ cause, even if it is to walk the plank. 

“Given that our monthly expenses are about $150,000 this was a much needed outcome.”

Chairman of the Board, Alan Burland, said: “The success of this fundraiser shows that our community cares about the social development of our young people. 

“We are honoured to be able to use Spirit of Bermuda to help develop productive citizens and potential mariners.”