Written by Aurora Sillars, Youngest British Competitor of the Ocean Globe Race 2023-24, RYA Yachtmaster Offshore alumni of Second Star School
The Ocean Globe Race (OGR) is a thrilling round-the-world amateur yacht race initiated in 2023 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the 1973 Whitbread Race. It offers a unique experience for amateur sailors of all levels. Here are 5 compelling reasons why you should consider taking up the challenge:
- Global Contest: This race circumnavigates Planet Earth, allowing you to experience a variety of challenging sea conditions, from the becalmed Tropics to the fiery Southern Ocean rollers. It’s the ultimate test of sailing endurance. And you will be able to join the tiny percentage of humans who have circumnavigated via the three great southern capes.
- Adventure, Exploration and Being Present: Fulfil the social media detox you know you need by immersing yourself in the cobalt-blue Atlantic waters, surrounded by charismatic colourful-billed tropical pelagic birds and hundreds of flying fish. Or plunge into the albatross-inhabited, Aurora Australis-frequented South Indian Ocean. Your mind will thank you for replacing screen-time with soul-time.
- Environmental Contribution: Participating in the OGR provides an opportunity to engage with marine conservation efforts. I took a microscope around the globe, sifting sea water every other day for plankton, microplastics and other micro particles. Data collected contributes to the promotion of oceanic health research.
- Learn Something New Every Day: Finally put your theoretical skills learnt for RYA exams into practise by taking on the OGR challenge. From tracking the trajectory of a depression to executing storm preparation manoeuvres, this race is an excellent way to become a more proficient and confident sailor. For an extra challenge, pick up a sextant to master the art of astro-navigation, and finish the OGR with a desire to apply for your RYA Yachtmaster Ocean!
- Meet a new set of international sailors: Enrolling in the OGR 2027 is more than just signing up for a race; it’s embarking on an adventure of a lifetime. You will gain unforgettable memories and stories. You will also develop bonds with fellow crews, both ashore and onboard, formed through shared feelings of joy, pride, strength and togetherness; bonds that will transcend space and time.
SO, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? YOUR FUTURE SELF WILL THANK YOU FOR STEPPING UP TO THE CHALLENGE… GO FOR IT!
