19-07-2025
Wootton sailor a gold medallist and flag bearer after cancer diagnosis
AN ISLE of Wight sailor who had to spend time away from the water following a cancer diagnosis went on to not only win gold at the Island Games but also become a flag bearer for its closing ceremony.
Two years ago, Arthur Farley wanted to compete in the games, but couldn't, after learning he had a rare and life-threatening cancer.
But the talented Island sailor didn't let that scupper his dreams — bravely taking it head-on and, as has been a habit throughout his career, winning.
Now, he stands as a gold medallist for individual and team in an astonishing display.
Read more:
Team Isle of Wight notch up 11 medals on day to remember
Island Games: How Team Isle of Wight fared on day 4 in Orkney
He's also been commended for his outstanding contribution in support of other sports; a very proud moment for the 21-year-old.
Arthur, of Wootton, was tipped for a bright future in Laser sailing as a teenager — winning national and European titles, with a world accolade and a successful step up to senior level firmly in his sights.
Isle of Wight sailor battling cancer for Olympics dream
He had climbed the UK's youth rankings to the pinnacle, then up to youth Olympic level, after he won the Europeans in 2022.
But underlying it all, Arthur's health was gradually and very seriously deteriorating.
He was suffering with a rare and chronic type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow — hairy cell leukaemia — a disease which only affects a handful of under-35s in the UK each year.
