NEXT SAILING OBJECTIVE : ASIA TOUR 2006

Since the 75ft trimaran B&Q returned to the UK in early November, she has been undergoing a complete checkover and mini-refit in Cowes before being shipped out to Japan this winter for Ellen's next very unique challenge. Sailing will begin at the end of March when Ellen and a crew will aim to establish a new record circuit between a number of major Asian cities. Running from Japan and onto five Chinese ports including Hong Kong China, Taiwan ending in Singapore around mid-May. This is perhaps one of the most ambitious projects the team have undertaken. It is a huge logistical challenge of organisation and red tape before B&Q even arrives in China and then she will be venturing out into unchartered territory for the first time as she attempts to establish a number of new crewed records - in such a way that other projects can go and challenge them in future years, filling a gap in the market (for sponsors in particular) for Asian based professional sailing challenges. For more information on this tour, click here

WHAT NEXT FOR ELLEN?

Perhaps the most frequently asked question to Ellen now is "what are your plans beyond 2006?" As yet, Ellen has not decided and will be spending some of her time in South Georgia contemplating her future in the sport of top level professional sailing. The current sponsorship contract with her title sponsors B&Q and Castorama, expires towards the end of 2006 and they are also currently reviewing the sponsorship programme. It is ten years ago that Ellen embarked on her first big sailing challenge, and she hasn't stopped since. The next challenge that she could take on is likely to be a very tough one mentally, requiring a full-on 3 year programme - a decision therefore not to take lightly after ten years of non-stop action. What can be certain is Ellen isn't about to stop loving the ocean, so watch this space! 

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS ELLEN DVD AND BOOK OFFER

A special DVD documenting Ellen's highs and lows of her record attempt has now been followed up by a pictorial book from Michael Joseph/Penguin also called 'Race Against Time' that includes 287 pages of stunning photographs and Ellen's email logs. You can now buy both products for a special price of £30.00. For more information, click here

BBC SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

It is now possible to vote online for your favourite sports personality. These votes go towards deciding the shortlist of candidates for the various awards. If you would like to nominate Ellen MacArthur for Sports Personality of the Year, go to this link and cast your vote. But remember, if Ellen makes it through to the shortlist, you will have to vote again on the night at the Awards ceremony on Sunday, 11th December by phone or text.