GGR 2022: SEPTEMBER 4TH, 2022
TIME UNTIL DEPARTURE
Race Start July 1, 2018
News & Thoughts
View allGGR News Updates
April 7th 2021 10:13 AM
Check this out for a well found GGR2022 YachtIf you would like to see a really well found #GGR2022 yacht…check this out…very impressive so good luck MIKE!!…but try not to head plant the fire extinguisher.. 🙂 …looking very organised indeed!
March 19th 2021 11:37 AM
DAMIEN GUILLOU AND PRB ENTER THE GOLDEN GLOBE RACE 2022After Philippe Péché in 2018, the Vendée company PRB has decided to take part in the second Golden Globe Race with Breton Damien Guillou.
January 21st 2021 11:27 AM
After exactly 59 days and 7000nm Guy & Sagarmatha entered portAfter exactly 59 days and 7000nm, from the Panama to the Azores, Guy and Sagarmatha entered the lovely little port of Povoacao on Sao Miguel in the Azores this morning.
He sounded remarkably well, and has enjoyed a Portuguese steak and red wine, hot shower, and a trip to the barbers!
Further updates in due course. Follow his Youtube Channel here.
December 9th 2020 03:39 AM
Three years ago 2017 Paris Nautic boat showJust three years ago on Dec 9th 2017 Paris Nautic boat show #GGR2018 Press conference…WHY? do we all look so much younger?? 🙂 #GGR2022 is just around the corner.
November 14th 2020 03:46 AM
Pat Lawless looks like he just won the GGRPat Lawless looks like he just won the GGR but instead he just sold all his Big Value raffle tickets, so still a winner…LIKE his page for the fun details!! …Go Pat!! … #GGR2022
October 29th 2020 10:14 AM
France moves into lockdown tonight till Dec. 1stFrance moves into lockdown tonight till Dec. 1st. The Vendee Globe Village will close. The Race will go ahead without the crowds. BRAVO to the Vendee Globe organisers and Les Sables d’Olonne..Keep the spirit and the world still watches!! The #GGR2022 Press conference planned for the 5th NOV will probably be cancelled. We have meetings today to discuss it. Jean Luc Van Den Heede #GGR2018 yacht Matmut ( now owned by GGR 22 entrant Graham Dalton) is at the village and today we were about to put up a huge GGR banner on the boat and flags etc for the crowds. Still a crazy world hey!! but the Race is ON!!
October 5th 2020 01:35 PM
8 minutes of a GGR2018 Film at the Les Sables d’Olonne Vendée Globe Film FestivalOn 31st October at the Les Sables d’Olonne Vendée Globe Film Festival at 17.50hrs you can see 8 minutes of a #GGR2018 Film. WE hope to release the documentary next year. It tells a special story….about Adventure and the human spirit, not money or business, or speed, or high tech…but a human endeavour that is too real!! ..We are all very proud of the Golden Globe Race and Les Sables d’Olonne who supported us from the very beginning!
September 22nd 2020 01:35 AM
Don’t miss out our live today :)Another week, today live will be our UK entry John Clarke with his Nicholson ” Skyeblue” and you will surprise to see who’s next Let’s have a guess, don’t miss out!
September 4th 2020 10:33 AM
Two years from todaySeptember 4th, 2022 Two years from today, a group of adventurous sailors will set out from Les Sables d’Olonne on the third edition of the Golden Globe Race. As was the case in the first two editions , none can predict the outcome, other than to say it will be a celebration of the human spirit during a sporting challenge that is incomparable and in many ways unimaginable. Be ready for another incredible adventure! that truly is pure and simple…One sailor, one boat, no technology, no assistance, totally alone!! …the clock is running… #GGR2022
August 17th 2020 04:05 AM
Follow Pat on his qualify sail for GGR2022Pat Lawless is off on a qualifying sail for the #GGR2022 two years ahead of schedule…looking good, he is on his way home now…sail safe Pat and enjoy…You can follow him on his tracker here.
3 days ago
A few #GGR2022 entrants are doing their own thing now that the OSTAR is cancelled due to COVID so have entered the NOSTAR...will be fun to watch and great training for the GGR!.......Good Luck!So yesterday evening I finally left Punta Ala, my home port, destination Plymouth-UK. I intended participating in the OSTAR to use it as a good training base for the GGR2022. Unfortunately it was recently decided to postpone it for another year. So four of the participants, including myself and Ertan Beskardes (another GGR2022 entrant), decided we would go for it anyway. The appointment is on the 9th of May at 12.00 noon at Plymouth breakwater for the start of our own little transatlantic race from Plymouth to Newport-RI in the US. This is the plan but I first have to get there ! 2200 nautical miles separate me from the NOSTAR (this is how we called it). It will be a pretty tough challenge in itself, given the time of year. Wish me fair winds ! 😀 ... See MoreSee Less
- Likes: 69
- Shares: 0
- Comments: 3
Well done and fair winds from deep southern Ireland.
Fair winds😉👍🧜♀️
Good wind...⛵
3 days ago
This has been an epic challenge for Guy but he is finally on the last leg AZORES to UK and home. #GGR2022A História do Sagarmatha e Guy Waites Sailing
Partiram do Panamá a 21 de Novembro de 2020, saindo do Mar das Caraíbas para o Oceano Atlântico. Navegaram em direção a sul, evitando as depressões mais a norte. Foi um progresso lento.
A menos de cem milhas das Ilhas Açorianas, viram-se a braços com tempestade. Foi durante o segundo dia de tempestade que o Sagarmatha foi alvo de uma onda e o mastro principal bateu no mar ficando gravemente danificado. A turbina eólica perdeu 3 das suas 5 lâminas. Navegaram duas semanas a norte dos Açores, de forma lenta, pois não era possível içar a Vela principal.
A 20 de Janeiro de 2021, o Sagarmatha entrava em Porto Seguro na Povoação por indicação da Autoridade Marítima Nacional.
Após os formalismos legais de entrada em território Português, Guy Waits, descansou alguns dias e iniciou a procura de soluções para arranjar o Mastro principal do Sagarmatha para poder regressar a casa.
Foram longos dias de espera, mas finalmente a fibra de Carbono para reparar o mastro chegara e o Guy Waits iniciou de imediato a reparação.
Foi necessário retirar o mastro do barco, uma operação que nunca tinha acontecido aqui, com várias ajudas foi possível retirar o mastro do barco, colocá-lo em cima do Porto, repará-lo e voltar a colocar o mastro no barco.
Guy Waits era presença assidua na sede do Clube Naval, inclusive foi ajudando, na reparação de alguns optimist que estávamos a fazer no clube.
Hoje o Sagarmatha rumou a casa. Desejamos os melhores ventos para rumares a casa Guy Waits e que um dia possamos voltar a ver-te por aqui.
#ClubeNavalPovoação
#MarinaPovoação ... See MoreSee Less
4 days ago
The finish line is in sight for the #GGR2022 Virtual fleet oLes Sables d'Olonnee have had Blue sky days here in Les Sables d'Olonne for the past 10 days. Quite amazing... :) ...Thanks Mike! and welcome home to the fleet. ... See MoreSee Less
6 days ago
Being an ex Hydrographer.. Capt'n Coconut does like his charts!! The Yacht Club Punta del Este may be too good to sail past! :) #GGR2022Punta Del Este here we come. This additional film drop will create a new dynamic for the 2022 GGR. Covered by the large scale chart BA 3703 - Bahia De Maldonado and Isla De Lobos, Uruguay. Coconut is planning a reconnaissance on the voyage from Adelaide to Les Sables d'Olonne for a dry run. ETD Adelaide 5 December 2021, ETA LSd'O ??? The adventure continues ... ... See MoreSee Less
2 weeks ago
If you would like to see a really well found #GGR2022 yacht...check this out...very impressive so good luck MIKE!!...but try not to head plant the fire extinguisher.. :) ...looking very organised indeed!
Michael Date Sailing GGR 2022
Well; I haven't posted for a while but been busy just the same. If you get time have a look at the video my daughter put together ! ... See MoreSee Less
Great video Mike. Really enjoyed the tour of the boat
Very nice production & video of your yacht. Looking very safe & reliable!
just a critical point of many competitors. No waterproof descent. Turnaround big problems
Great to see you boat in top shape, fair play Mike.
the boat is looking great isn't it
Your video is brillant Mike!!👍
2 weeks ago
The information as a whole from the start makes a very valuable and interesting file for future GGR entrants....nearly home.. woop woop!! and right now -1 c was forecast so you could expect a chilli reception but a very warm Les Sables d'Olonne crown on the wall to welcome you in .... #GGR2022 ... See MoreSee Less
2 weeks ago
Brightest Easter Coconut on the planet...enjoy the holidays if you celebrate that :) ...#GGR2022a few early morning starts to avoid the heat to refresh the non-skid on Coconut's deck and cabin top; the original was worn off during the 157 days at sea from Les Sable d'Olonne to Adelaide during the Golden Globe Race in 2018 ... See MoreSee Less
Should try kiwi grip stuff is amazing and water based no fumes 🤙👍
Is that an A frame for a jury rig on the foredeck?
whats the paint?
Te aseguraste que te vieran
3 weeks ago

Arnaud Gaist one of three FRENCH #GGR2022 entrants has been lucky to receive the support of students aLes Sables d'Olonnearly Maritime training school in Les Sables d'Olonne during the refit of his yacht and just completed this short video of some work, but not all currently completed. :)
Dans 500 jours je serai au départ de la Golden Globe Race. A l'automne, je n'avais pas beaucoup de moyens pour préparer mon voilier. mais en découvrant le ca... ... See MoreSee Less
I bet that centreline box is there to house the hydraulic rams that control his foiling wings! Oh yeah baby. That's it for sure!
3 weeks ago
A few days late to share but here is the virtual #GGR2022 fleet on todays weather :) ..Thanks Mike! ... See MoreSee Less
3 weeks ago

GGR 2022 Les Sables d'Olonne press conference promo videoGGR 2022 Les Sables d'Olonne press conference promo video on 22nd March 2021 ... See MoreSee Less
3 weeks ago
#GGR2022 Refits can be a bit "More of the same" but Kirsten has really stumbled on a couple guys and a community a bit by chance and circumstance with exceptional results....it makes for interesting reading if you like her blogs :) ....These guys really are doing everything in one shop ( with Kirsten's experienced eye) and something tells me it is not only fast, efficient but probably very good value too. .... :)
Kirsten Neuschäfer
As promised, here is the latest refit post: after what feels like weeks and weeks of fairing and sanding, priming, touching up on fairing and then sanding again, we now have Minnehaha's deck, coach roof and cockpit as good as perfect, and have applied the first layer of white Awlgrip primer. As anyone who has done painting will know, the prepping, which consists of sanding and subsequent cleaning away of dust and masking the things that are not to be painted, is the biggest task of all - and a clean surface the key to a successful paint job. We started by rolling the paint on with sponge rollers, but Eddie, being the perfectionist that he is, was not happy with the result, so the very same evening he decided that he would spray the paint on instead. With almost all the deck fittings removed, it only entailed a little extra masking and taping. The result is an exceptionally, smooth, professional finish - and this is still only primer - wait till we have the topcoat on! As with everything he does, Eddie did the spray-painting immaculately! Another great job, Eddie! And Minnehaha is starting to look really cheerful, and yet another step closer to getting re-launched! #boatrefit #painting #spraypainting #deckpainting #GGR2022 #boatadventures #princeedwardisland ... See MoreSee Less
Great boat the Cape George 36! I have always admire them for their great design and superb build!
Go Kirsten Neuschäfer !!
4 weeks ago
An emotive Video just released. The Vendee Globe, Golden Globe and 6.50 Mini Transat all depart from Les Sables d'Olonne currently the center of the world for Solo sailing...BRAVO and thanks for being such great Partners to #GGR2022 and friends and such a great place to live and work!! ..
Les Sables d'Olonne
𝐋𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐝'𝐎𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞 : 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐝𝐞 𝐥𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐮 𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐞.
Port de départ des plus grandes aventures, ville du grand large,
Les Sables d’Olonne est le théâtre des plus belles compétitions nautiques.
Une édition incroyable du Vendée Globe s'achève à peine, et déjà les pontons de Port Olona vibrent au rythme de la Solo Maitre Coq, tandis qu'en coulisse de grandes courses sont en préparation :
☑ La Mini Transat en septembre prochain, qui pose ses valises aux Sables d’Olonne pour 3 éditions.
☑ La Golden Globe Race, dont la renaissance a eu lieu aux Sables il y a 4 ans, et qui s’élancera pour une nouvelle édition en septembre 2022.
𝐋’𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐬 𝐞𝐭 𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐝é𝐞𝐧 𝐧’𝐚 𝐩𝐚𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐝𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐜é𝐚𝐧𝐬.
******
𝐋𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐝’𝐎𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠.
The greatest sea adventures start at Les Sables d’Olonne harbour.
This wonderful city is the hub of the most beautiful nautical competitions ever existed.
While an incredible edition of the Vendée Globe has just come to an end, the « Port Olona » pontoons are already echoing under the rythm of the « Solo Maitre Coq » sailing race.
Our town is now getting ready to bring you the next unmissable events in single-handed ocean racing :
☑ with the « Mini Transat », which will be held in Les Sables d’Olonne for the next three editions, the first of which will take place in September 2021.
☑ the « Golden Globe Race » once again after 4 years will commence in September 2022.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐝é𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐬.
Team Arnaud Boissières Manuel Cousin Benjamin Dutreux Sebastien Simon Jean Luc Vandenheede Istvan Kopar ... See MoreSee Less
Francesco Cappelletti 👏👏👏
4 weeks ago
GGR Press Conference Les Sables d’Olonne March 22nd
Speech DON MCINTYRE GGR Founder. Approx. 6.5minutes.
The 1968 Golden Globe was the first ever around the world yacht race. Since then, legends like the only finisher and winner Sir Robin Knox Johnston, and Bernard Moitessier have inspired many sailors and created new Around the world races. I was there in Sydney with Philippe Jeantot when he conceived the first 1998 Vendee Globe. The Golden Globe was part of his idea.
In 2018, together with our partner Les Sables d’Olonne, we brought the Golden Globe back to life 50 years later. This incredible Adventure continues with a third edition starting from Les Sables d’Olonne on Sept 4th 2022. Again, Les Sables d’Olonne stands with us as a passionate partner building a bigger and even more exciting event.
The 2018 GGR was a repeat journey into the unknow. The world had changed, but the world had never seen anything like it. 18 sailors set sail not knowing what to expect. We all held our breath and an international GGR Family followed day by day with genuine enthusiasm. Yachts were lost, stories were told and sailors everywhere were inspired. Some of the best sailors on the planet had lined up at the start in Les Sables d’Olonne. So too did the dreamers, just as they did in 1968.
Unlike the first edition, our Notice of Race was considered by French Maritime Authorities as the best for any yacht race ever to sail from this country and the Security Arrangements appropriate for the challenge.
10 months after the start, Tapio Lehtinen the last of only five sailors to complete the journey, crossed the finish line creating history once again. Jean Luc Van Den Heede, one of the great sailors of our time, won the 2nd Golden Globe. He was 73yo. and has been a beautiful dreamer his entire life! Like all entrants, his voyage was filled with drama and courage in the face of real adversity. It was tough! Very tough. He was at sea for 212 days totally alone, the equivalent of three Vendee Globes. His final VDH journal has and continues to inspires a new generation of sailors, as did his previous five solo circumnavigations of the Globe.
The GGR is unique and has established once again the core principles of that first in 1968 edition. Open to sailors young and old it is affordable in 32-36ft strong, recycled, seaworthy yet simple yachts. There is No technology, No satellite comms or GPS, No autopilots and only cassette tapes for music. The GGR is the ONLY solo race around the world with Absolutely NO Outside assistance of any kind.
The GGR is NOT a flying 10-week sprint around the Globe. It is a gruelling demanding and daring marathon. You could fly to Mars quicker than completing the GGR! Entrants spend more time in the Southern Ocean than most current races take to circumnavigate. There are no SKYPE calls home to family for psychological support, or engineers for advice. The GGR is total isolation on a grand scale. It steps back to a simpler time, where the sailor relies entirely on themselves for their own destiny.
This challenge is not for everyone. It’s serious. Only the best will finish. Question? IS it the toughest Solo Non-stop race around the world? Who cares? We know it is seriously tough with no comparisons, Yet it is a beautiful and simple Challenge. It takes a special sailor to even consider it possible. Those that finish in 2023 will again make history!
Today 28 entrants from 11 Countries have signed for the next edition. The British want the Golden Globe back! They are sending 8 sailors to recover it. Australia sends 6 entrants. We are excited to welcome # Damien Guillou and PRB to the GGR in the last few days, leading the three French entrants who will attempt to retain the Golden Globe trophy. New Zealand sends # Graham Dalton brother of Americas Cup winner # Grant Dalton, who is sailing JL VDH 2018 R36 Matmut., # Tapio Lethinen from 2018 GGR sailing “Asteria” covered with Barnacles returns with a plan to win. # Captain Coconut, Mark Sinclair also from 2018 returns with unfinished business. Our only woman entrant # Kirsten Neuschafr from South Africa is a sailor with the experience to win and a yacht that could actually do it! Our youngest is 26 yo. American # Elliott Smith and Oldest at 79, the indomitable multiple solo circumnavigator # David Scott Cowper from the UK. Only Four SUHAILI Class entries are still available to sailors hoping to join the 2022 GGR.
As organisers we learnt a lot from the last edition of the GGR. There have been changes and one of the biggest is a new start date Two months later than 2018 placeing the fleet more favourably in the Southern Ocean. Safety and security standards remain high and sailing qualifications have been increased.
A new 2-hour time penalty for every litre of fuel consumed during the race will be added to finishing times. This encourages all entrants to focus on Solar, Wind and Water power generation. Our world first WASTE MANAGEMENT plan for all entrants in the 2018 GGR will remain.
For the first time Expanded MEDIA ACCESS to GGR skippers With Entrants receiving two direct satellite phone interviews from any media outlet, every week while racing. The possibility of sending satellite photos from entrants to Race Control is being investigated. A third Video film drop for live interviews is also scheduled for Cape Town, South Africa before sailors’ head into the Southern Ocean and a fourth may be established after rounding Cape Horn. A comprehensive Media Production and Global TV distribution plan will send the GGR story to millions of families around the world.
On July the 1st 2018, crowds that gathered on the famous Les Sables river cheering our GGR sailors witnessed something special. But they could never have imagined what lay ahead. The Golden Globe is personal, maybe even romantic and centred on the sailor. Nothing else matters. It is seriously a human story, not the boat, not technology and not the money that creates the winner and it’s all about the stories.
On Sept 4th next year once again, these special sailors will set out on an adventure unique to this planet. They are all volunteers in what is recognised as the longest, loneliest, slowest race and most daring challenge for any individual in any sport.
Finally, I want to thank once again the people of Les Sables d’Olonne who have so completely embraced what the Golden Globe stands for and also welcoming Jane and I as locals now. It is such a great place to live and work…and we are still working on our French lessons!!
#ENDS# ... See MoreSee Less
Cc Don M ... 🧭 Bonne journée à vous
Thanks Aida Ogr for the pics :) !!!!
Will there be a video available we may buy of the first race?
Wow!
Can’t wait!
⛵️
it was a great press conference and thanks to Aida for covering it on La télé des Sables ;-) (y)
Can't wait for the start in 2022, I will be sailing from my arm chair😁
Well said / written Don.
wow
4 weeks ago
Very Happy to have Plastimo onboard again for #GGR2022 with important safety gear, particularly a custom 4 man raft to special GGR specifications...Awesome 👏 : one more French entrant in Golden Globe Race ! Welcome Damien Guillou former Classe Figaro Bénéteau racer and recently #Imoca expert as boat captain for Kevin Escoffier - PRB + support from outstanding partner PRB... you tick all the boxes ! ✅
#Plastimo #safety partner to #GGR2022 look forward to welcoming you in our #Lorient factory to check on your #safety equipment, just as Jean Luc Vandenheede did prior to winning #GGR2018. #seeyousoon Damien ! ... See MoreSee Less
PRB was a little too exciting. Better luck on this trip!
I remember selling their compasses in the early - 80:ies!😉😊
WoW great❤️
Will they be producing OGR liferafts?
4 weeks ago
WOW...Two years ago TODAY 🤪 ... See MoreSee Less
Gratulálok! Ha blogod, vagy történeted is van az útadról, annak elérhetőségét szívesem venném! 👍👍👍
4 weeks ago

ENGLISH SUBTITLES to the PRB-Damien Guillou #GGR2022 Entry video clip :)
After Philippe Péché in 2018, the Vendée company PRB has decided to take part in the second Golden Globe Race with Breton Damien Guillou. Vedio by PRB ... See MoreSee Less
1 month ago
WE are excited to welcome Damien Guillou and PRB to the #GGR2022 .. We will upload an English Subtitle Video shortly..
DAMIEN GUILLOU AND PRB ENTER THE GOLDEN GLOBE RACE 2022
MARCH 18, 2021
Damien Guillou is preparing to take up an extraordinary challenge under the colors of PRB. At 38, the Breton will live alone at sea for more than 200 days for a round the world nonstop, without assistance and without modern means of communication, the Golden Globe Race.
Faced with competitors who, like him, take up this crazy bet, Damien will make his way with the sextant! The sailor, trained in Olympic sailing (optimist, laser, 49er) and Figaro knows everything about modern monohulls. He could even draw eyes closed for the 60 'PRB with which Kevin Escoffier entered the last Vendée Globe. It was he who, as PRB's boat captain, took care of this carbon boat until the last minutes before kick-off. But today he has chosen to set off on a boat of only 11 meters and deprived of any electronic tool ... Minimalist comfort, paper maps and sextant will be his companions for this competition which defies all the codes of modern navigation (no computers, no satellite navigation aid, no automatic pilot, etc.). Damien creates the surprise because he is not necessarily the one we imagined embarking on such an epic. But it is as a true lover of the sea and passionate about competition, that he will cover these 30,000 miles through the three capes. Particularly proud to lead this adventure with PRB, Damien continues the history of the Vendée company with tours of the world.
It was during the Vendée Globe village, last October, that the project began to germinate. Then a member of the IMOCA PRB technical team, Damien Guillou talks with Jean-Jacques Laurent, President of the Vendée SME on the mythical pontoon of Sables d'Olonne. The latter lets Damien know that he wants to realign a PRB boat on the Golden Globe Race and that he is looking for a skipper. Concentrated on the preparation of the 60 feet, the Breton hears but does not project himself immediately. “When Jean-Jacques Laurent told me that, we were in the home stretch to prepare for IMOCA so I didn't really react, even though this proposal obviously appealed to me. Following this discussion, I took the time to find out about the dates of the race and the idea gradually gained momentum. I was at this stage still in personal reflection. Afterwards I took the step to talk about it to my wife and I also discussed it with Paul Meilhat and Anthony Marchand, two childhood friends who know me well. It was only after having had their points of view that I returned to Jean-Jacques Laurent to inform him that I really wanted to embark on this project, he then replied Go! "
“I find myself fully in this ordeal! "
This is a challenge completely new Damien Guillou will tackle next year with passion and desire. “All the criteria are met for this Golden Globe Race! The racing aspect, my love of boats and the sea, my taste for technical preparation and adventure! Even if it may seem surprising, I find myself fully in this ordeal! I had carefully followed the 2018 edition, telling myself that it was both interesting and daring, but without imagining that I would one day take the start of this race. And doing it under the PRB colors really means something to me, I'm very proud of it! The story continues in a different way in a way and I'm very happy to have Kevin's support in this project too. His seamanship and his advice are very precious! " Supported in his approach by Kevin Escoffier, Damien benefits from all the energy of the “PRB family”. Vincent Riou, former winner of the Vendée Globe under the PRB colors in 2004, will welcome Damien's boat in its structure to prepare it. The Rustler 36 bought last month in Italy will reach Port-La-Forêt at the end of April.
A total refit project
The monohull which perfectly meets the strict criteria of the Golden Globe Race was built on plans drawn before 1988 (1980). The sailboat will be under construction for about two months as indicated by Damien: “We are still awaiting the Italian authorizations for the exceptional transport which will be done by road. The health context complicates things a bit, but this should unblock soon. As soon as we have received the boat, it will go into the yard for a total refit. For the moment, it is in cruise configuration. The objective will be to put it in race mode and that requires significant changes. We are planning a relaunch at the end of June so that I will sail all summer to take it in hand and start qualifying for 2000 miles at the beginning of September. "
First step: learning to use a sextant
While waiting, Damien Guillou has started learning the sextant… An essential first step for this Golden Globe Race. “I went for two days for training in Toulouse with a person passionate about sextant who has made it his job. This allowed me to acquire the basics and since then I have been doing arithmetic exercises almost every day. When it's sunny, I also go to the edge of the coast to do some surveys. The sextant can be frightening at first, but it's not overwhelming! In no time, I managed to get by! I can't wait to put it all into practice on the boat this summer! » Says Damien already fully launched in his project.
For Jean-Jacques Laurent, it is the continuity of a beautiful meeting. “I really wanted to return to this race. We took part in the first edition with Philippe Péché. And we discovered a universe totally different from the Vendée Globe. In the Vendée Globe, we are in a technological dimension and things have to go quickly. It is exciting. We have seen the enthusiasm generated by the edition which has just ended. On the Golden Globe Race, we maintain a relationship with the long term! It's a whole different challenge, but it's just as fascinating. It's fantastic that Damien wears our colors. He was already in the PRB family. He's a great sailor. He is very enthusiastic and has a very serious approach. I think it is very respectful to be part of the history of PRB with the tours of the world. He has our full confidence and also Kevin's support, which is obviously important to us. It's a very good story that begins in view of this extremely difficult race. "
PRB
💥 Damien Guillou et PRB s'engagent sur la Golden Globe Race 2022
C’est un défi hors norme que s’apprête à relever Damien Guillou sous les couleurs de PRB. À 38 ans, le Breton va vivre seul en mer pendant plus de 200 jours pour un tour du monde sans escale, sans assistance et sans moyen moderne de communication, la Golden Globe Race dont le départ sera donné le 4 septembre 2022 !
📲 Lire l'article complet 👉 bit.ly/38QJdJR
PRB | Golden Globe Race
🎞 Polaryse ... See MoreSee Less
Video with English subtitle youtu.be/0-Ah-xjG6BE
Damien looking forward to seeing you before too long I hope
Looking forward to meet you Damien.
Welcome to the race Damien!
Serait-ce le rustler qui m est passé sous le nez? Bon vent Damien Guillou
Didn't PRB break in half and sink in the VG?
1 month ago

Stand by for Exciting GGR News tomorrow and a Joint Les Sables d'Olonne77805628896648">#GGR2022 and Les Sables d'Olonne PRESS CONFERENCE on Monday 22nd March. Nothing to do with Susie Goodall, but this was such an exciting video clip about her to feel the human side of the 2018 Golden Globe that evolved into an epic for her. I wanted to share it as another HUMAN Story. It plays out again in 18 months, so watch this space :) A beautiful video showing Susie Goodall and Sir Robin Knox Johnston talking about her Golden Globe 2018 project (including french subtitles). Produced for DHL ... See MoreSee Less
Will this be live on this page Don? And if so what time? Exciting!
Hey Don and team , do you have any update on the release dates for the super footage from the 2018 race crews , patiently waiting ⛵️🇮🇪 Darin ⛵️
1 month ago
Ertan is having fun with new toys and serious Planning and Preparation before the final Execution of his #GGR2022 adventure... ... See MoreSee Less
Looking good 😎⛵️
51 Years ago today on 22nd April 1969 Sir Robin Knox Johnston became the first peson to sail solo Non-stop unassist… https://t.co/4ImTcDyeMO
We are ok! How about you? GGR family! Thanks jfb85220 for capturing this special moment! Wish we could kisses and h… https://t.co/YTYl0W5aZg
IGOR ZARETSKIY has officially withdrawn from the Chichester Class of the 2018 Golden Globe Race. His team advised t… https://t.co/AwBurUbZQC
Excited and very happy to announce Tapio Lehtinen is entering the #GGR2022 in Asteria, for some unfinished busines… https://t.co/ozW0KCmU5g
Changes to 2022 GGR Notice of Race https://t.co/Yjo22iWrrI
#GGR2022 will start from Les Sables again !!! 🥳🥳🥳🥳⛵️⛵️⛵️⛵️⛵️⛵️😘😘😘😘 . . . Pic#lessablesdolonne #ggr2018 #ggr2022… https://t.co/uj78xlnbVL
322days at sea, alone! You could climb whatever you like when you arrive 🥳🥳🥳🤣🤣🤣⛵️⛵️⛵️👍👍👍 Show off time for Tapio! W… https://t.co/Uq0EiipRxx
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite)Flag astern, biggest blue & white gennaker up, green water, seagulls, dolphins, sun… https://t.co/ThBAnodgkL
ETA Tapio FRENCH TIME 1800-2200hrs SUNDAY 19th MAY!!!! ...the wind forecast should hold!! :) Fresh Messages from Ta… https://t.co/DVqFfce7X3
Tapio #Lehtinen While being escorted towards land by pilot whales, a boat beating upwind crossed astern of us. On V… https://t.co/P3cLcCHKqu
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) Wind dropped below 10 knots and veered to NNE in the morning, trying to make the be… https://t.co/to3bcsnWPd
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) An additional incentive to take full advantage of this NW blow is my mother's 86th birthday on Sunday:)
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) THX Sampo Sailo and the team of Elmar Mertens, Wille Pietarinen and Kai Strom for b… https://t.co/Lo9oL8coCo
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) Vastauksena kysymykseen: Sikalassa pieni vorschmack kukon ja kossusnapsin kera, sit… https://t.co/f8qOn5SaoQ
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) Gilles! L'autre copain sur le mur de ton toilet arrivera a bientot, ne me oubliez p… https://t.co/kICDb6tmAJ
Tapio #Lehtinen Hello Ari Huusela! I heard that in addition to the two IMOCAs I saw today also you and 14 others we… https://t.co/CrYPgoCyGl
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) Didn't respond to my VHF hails (far away, I'm using the hh), would have been nice t… https://t.co/WB2sTfR1mg
Tapio #Lehtinen Was becalmed in the morning, now making 4 to 5 kn in a 10 kn S. Two IMOCAs came against me, the fir… https://t.co/dGmmfM3xSs
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) My Windpilot windwane took Asteria again through what might be the last gale gustin… https://t.co/o8LZdGZfff
Tapio #Lehtinen (via satellite) But I have made it all the way here anyway and now my landfall to LSO should be eve… https://t.co/jv3udVInp9
Please enter an Access Token on the Instagram Feed plugin Settings page.
![]() |
Jean-Luc van den HeedeTotal NM sailed: 27433 | 1 |
![]() |
Mark SlatsTotal NM sailed: 27178 | 2 |
![]() |
Uku RandmaaTotal NM sailed: 23218 | 3 |
![]() |
Istvan KoparTotal NM sailed: 22905 | 4 |
![]() |
Tapio LehtinenTotal NM sailed: 20015 | 5 |
Timetable
// Golden Globe Race Start – July 1st 2018
// Skippers will sail through Storm Gate – End of October/Early November 2018
// Finish! – Les Sables d’Olonne – Jan 26/27/28 2019
// Prize giving – Les Sables d’Olonne – April 22th 2019
// Entries opened for Golden Globe Race 2022 – August 22nd 2019
Skippers 2022
View all Skippers 2022Clips & Pics
View all Clips











Departure July 1st 2018

Skippers GGR 2018
Groupshot of all skippers shortly before start

Suhaili escort
Suhaili escorted in to Les Sables d’Olonne by a flotilla of yachts representing the French section of the Cruising Association

SITraN start

Uku v Susie
Uku Randmaa’s Estonian yacht ONE & ALL leads Susie Goodall’s DHL STARLIGHT at the start of the SITRaN Challenge race

The Route
The 2018 Golden Globe race will now start from Les Sables d’Olonne, France on July 1 and take the fleet around the five great Capes in the Southern Ocean.

Robin Knox-Johnston waving aboard
Circa 22nd April 1969: Robin Knox-Johnston waving aboard his 32ft yacht SUHAILI off Falmouth, England after becoming the first man to sail solo non-stop around the globe. Knox-Johnston was the sole finisher in the Sunday Times Golden Globe solo round the world race, having set out from Falmouth, England on 14th June 1968 aboard his tiny 32ft ketch Suhaili. It was a time when the Flat Earth Society was still in existence, and even seasoned yachtsman thought it to be an impossible feat. For everyone else it was; Robin was the sole finisher among 9 starters to complete this 30,000 mile supreme endurance race, organised by the Sunday Times newspaper.
PICTURES OF YESTERYEAR – MANAGED BY PPL PHOTO AGENCY – COPYRIGHT RESERVED PHOTO CREDIT: Bill Rowntree/PPL TEL: +44 (0) 1243 555561 E-mail: ppl@mistral.co.uk Web: www.pplmedia.com

Original sign and logo advertising
Circa 1968. the original sign and logo advertising the 1968/9 Sunday Times Round the World Race. The race was won by Robin Knox-Johnston with his 32ft ketch rigged yacht SUHAILI with a time of 312 days. Knox-Johnston was the sole finisher in the race and the first to sail solo non-stop around the world.
PICTURES OF YESTERYEAR -Managed by PPL PHOTO AGENCY – COPYRIGHT RESERVED PHOTO CREDIT : PPL Tel: +44(0) 7768 395719 E-mail: ppl@mistral.co.uk Web: www.pplmedia.com

RKJ on Suhaili
***Historic. Circa 1969: Robin Knox-Johnston, the first man to sail solo non-stop around the world aboard his 32ft ketch SUHAILI. Knox-Johnston returned on 22nd of April 1969 completing the 30,123 mile voyage in 313 days, averaging 4.04 knots.
PPL PHOTO AGENCY LTD – COPYRIGHT RESERVED PHOTO CREDIT: Knox-Johnston Archive/PPL TEL: +44 (0)1243 555561 Email: ppl@mistral.co.uk Web: www.pplmedia.com

Robin Knox-Johnston
***Historic. Circa 1969: Robin Knox-Johnston, the first man to sail solo non-stop around the World, aboard his 32ft 5in yacht SUHAILI. Pictured here celebrating with a pint of beer after returning to Falmouth, England on 22nd April 1969, completing the 30,123 mile voyage in 312 days – an average of 4.02knots
PHOTO AGENCY LTD – COPYRIGHT RESERVED PHOTO CREDIT: Bill Rowntree/PPL Photo Agency TEL: +44 (0)1243 555561 Email: ppl@mistral.co.uk Web: www.pplmedia.com