Blue Islands announce first recipients of the #mybi Flight Fund

In January 2019, Blue Islands launched the #mybi Flight Fund. Over 20 applications, consisting of Channel Island residents, groups and charities applied for free flights, with hopes of achieving their off-Island ambitions.

Blue Islands is delighted to announce the first beneficiaries of the fund who will collectively receive over £10,000 worth of flights.

Rob Veron, CEO Blue Islands said, “there was an overwhelming response from a diverse range of individuals and organisations in Guernsey and Jersey. Applications included teams and individuals from a wide range of sports including surfing, football, archery, netball as well as a music, art and youth development. It was wonderful to read the passion in each application and difficult to choose the first phase of flight recipients.”

Recipients include Lily Jones (15), from Jersey. Lily plays netball for Team Jets but trains in UK with Seven Stars. The fund will enable her to train off-island, giving her national experience to bring back to the Jet’s court.

Another beneficiary, Brett Smeed, from Guernsey, applied via Riding for the Disabled (RDA) and has already taken his flight which allowed him to participate in dressage competitions in the UK. Brett, 28, who has been blind since he was 15, said: “Thanks to the #mybi Flight Fund, I got the opportunity to compete in the RDA South Region Qualifier show and have qualified for the National Championships, which is something I never imagined in a million years I would ever do. This has opened many doors that I intend to walk through to see where it takes me. I am at the beginning of an equine journey that I am excited about. I am very grateful to Blue Islands for providing me with this chance.”

Mr Veron continued, “the number and variety of applications for the #mybi Flight Fund highlights the dedication, commitment and talent there is in the Channel Islands. Whether pursuing achievements in sport, music, art or personal development, we’re delighted to be able to help provide opportunities that will have a positive impact on Channel Islanders’ lives.”

Blue Islands looks forward to sharing the individual stories and achievements of everyone who has benefited from the #mybi Flight Fund.

Picture: Blue Islands.