Strong interest in racing round the world

The fourth edition of the Golden Globe Race is set to commence on September 6, 2026. Thus far, 29 solo sailors from 12 countries have entered, including two women, with only one provisional entry remaining before a waitlist is initiated.

The Golden Globe Race, which began in 1968 as the first solo, non-stop around-the-world sailing race, remains a defining event in the sport, epitomizing the essence of an “unassisted” voyage.

The first Golden Globe Race saw nine sailors set sail on a daunting solo non-stop journey around the world, unsure if it was even possible. After 312 grueling days, only one sailor returned: 29-year-old Robin Knox-Johnston, aboard the weather-beaten 32-foot Suhaili.

Today, there are ten around-the-world yacht races, but the Golden Globe Race is unique in its rules that limit expense, focusing on simple, practical, affordable, and sustainable yachts with limited technology onboard. The voyage is epic, long and lonely. It is about finishing at all costs, yet history suggests only 20% will.

The second edition of the GGR, which sailed from Les Sables d’Olonne, France, in 2018, was won by Frenchman Jean-Luc Van Den Heede. In 2022, the third edition saw South African woman Kirsten Neuschäfer become the first woman to win, earning massive international recognition.

Looking ahead to 2026, founder and organizer Don McIntyre is searching for a naming rights partner to secure the GGR’s long-term future. “For a title partner, the GGR offers unique raw material centered around strong individual characters on a grand journey that begins now and spans nearly four years.”

Details: http://goldengloberace.com/

On September 4, 2022, the third edition of the Golden Globe Race started from Les Sables d’Olonne, France. Sixteen skippers faced 8+ months of isolation sailing 30,000 miles before finishing in Les Sables d’Olonne. Along the route there were several marks of the course and media requirements.

In 1968, while man was preparing to take his first steps on the moon, nine others started that first solo non-stop sailing race around the World. Only one finished – 29 year old Sir Robin Knox Johnston. Navigating only with a sextant, paper charts, and an accurate and reliable time piece, Sir Robin navigated around the world.

In 2018, to celebrate 50 years since that first record-breaking achievement, the Golden Globe Race was resurrected. It instantly gained traction with adventurers, captivated by the spirit and opportunity. Eighteen started with five finishers. When repeated in 2022, there again were five finishers from 16 starters.