Sailing Magazine
by Richard Crockett
It has not been an easy decision to share today’s newspaper cutting as, while it’s news, I do know that John Martin still hurts. But it’s news, and one cannot simply sweep Bertie Reed’s bravery and seamanship under the carpet.
34 years ago today Bertie Reed was honoured for rescuing John Martin deep in the Southern Ocean while racing the BOC around the world alone race.
“Bertie Reed has been presented with an award for outstanding bravery from President de Klerk.
“The tough sailor, known as “Biltong Bertie” was visibly moved while accepting the award for saving John Martin from his sinking yacht during the BOC around-the-world race.”
Bertie’s selflessness was a combination of seamanship and bravery of the highest order, with his award being richly deserved.
READ MORE HERE: 1991 03 20 – 30 – OCR
