ocean yacht race 2023

The IMOCA Holcim-PRB relaunched in Port-la-Forêt

Most incredible drone shots from the ocean race, charlie enright: "there's nothing like the ocean race".

11th Hour Racing Team skipper Charlie Enright reflects back on his amazing experience in The Ocean Race...

The Ocean Race Europe 2025 will start from Kiel, Germany

Where is the next route.

Cracking the code of The Ocean Race track

Charlie Enright recognised as US Sailing's Yachtsman of the Year for 2023

• Racing with Purpose

Inspired by the Ocean

At The Ocean Race we believe that we have the platform to educate, inspire and accelerate action for our blue planet at this critical time in history. Learn here how we are doing it.

USNA Offshore Sailing’s KODIAK Takes First Overall in 2023

After a tactically tough race starting from the get go in foggy, wet conditions, the fleet diligently worked their way to complete the 39th MHOR.

That's a Wrap!

The 39th Marblehead to Halifax concludes with an epic party and awards ceremony.

Wednesday Morning Update!

Today will be an exciting day with finishers crossing the line throughout the day and night!

Official Events

Alicante, spain.

7 January 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening 8 January 2023 - In-Port Race 12 & 13 January 2023 - Pro-Am Sailing 15 January 2023 - Leg Start

Opening hours

Every day from 10am to 8pm

Thursday 12 from 10am to 9pm

Friday 13 & Saturdays 7-14 from 10am to 10pm

20 January 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening 22 January 2023 - ETA of the boats 23 January 2023 - The Ocean Race Summit 24 January 2023 - Prize Giving Ceremony 25 January 2023 - Leg Start

Friday 20 January from 4.00pm to 11.30pm

Saturday 21 January from 11.00am to 11.30pm

Sunday 22 January from 11.00am to 11.30pm

Monday 23 January from 11.00am to 10.30pm

Tuesday 24 January from 11.00am to 10.30pm

Wednesday 25 January from 11.00am to 8.00pm

Cape Town, South Africa

8 February 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening 9 February 2023 - ETA of the boats 22 & 23 February 2023 - Pro-Am Sailing 24 February 2023 - In-Port Race & Awards Night 26 February 2023 - Leg Start

Every day from 10am to 7pm

Itajaí, Brazil

29 March 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening 1 April 2023 - ETA of the boats 19 April 2023 - The Ocean Race Summit 19 & 20 April 2023 - Pro-Am Sailing 21 April 2023 - In-Port Race & Awards Night 23 April 2023 - Leg Start

29 March - 6pm to 11pm

Monday to Friday - 2pm to 11pm

Weekends & public holidays (7 & 21 April) - 11am to 11pm

The Ocean Live Park will remain closed on the 10 - 11 - 17 - 18 April.

Newport, RI, USA

10 May 2023 - ETA of the boats 13 May 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening 16 May 2023 - The Ocean Race Summit 17 & 18 May 2023 - Pro-Am Sailing 19 May 2023 - Awards Night 20 May 2023 - In-Port Race 21 May 2023 - Leg Start

Saturday 13: from 10am to 7pm

Sunday 14 May:  from 10am to 7:30 pm

From Monday 15 to Friday 19: from 11am to 7pm.

Saturday 20 May: from 10am to 7pm

Sunday 21 May: from 10am to 6pm

Aarhus, Denmark

29 May 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening 30 May 2023 - ETA of the boats 1 June 2023 - The Ocean Race Summit 4 June 2023 - In-Port Race & Awards Night 5 & 6 June 2023 - Pro-Am Sailing 8 June 2023 - Leg Start

Every day from 10am to 8pm except:

29 May 2023: 10am to 11pm 4 June 2023: 10am to 11pm

Sustainability area opening hours:

29 May; 3-5 June from 10am to 5pm

30 May; 2-6-7-8 June from 10am to 3pm

Kiel, Germany (Fly-By)

8 June - Opening

9 June - Fly-by

10 June  

Every day from 10am to 7pm.

The Hague, The Netherlands

11 June 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening & ETA of the boats 12 June 2023 - Awards Night 13 & 14 June 2023 - In-Port Race & Pro-Am Sailing 15 June 2023 - Leg Start

Sunday 11 June - from 12pm to 9pm

From Monday 12 to Thursday 15 - from 11am to 9pm

Genova, Italy, The Grand Finale

24 June 2023 - Ocean Live Park Opening  25 June 2023 - ETA of the boats 27 June 2023 - The Ocean Race Summit 28 & 29 June 2023 - Pro-Am Sailing 1 July 2023 - In-Port Race & Awards Night

Opening hours 

Saturday 24 June: from 10am to 10pm 

Sunday 25 June: from 10am to 11pm 

From Monday 26 June to  Thursday 29 June: from 10am to 9pm 

Friday 30 June: from 10am to 10pm 

Saturday 1 July: from 10am to 11pm 

Sunday 2 July: from 10am to 8pm 

• The Ocean Race
• Calendar - Results
• Football Home
• Fixtures - Results
• Premier League
• Champions League
• Europa League
• All Competitions
• All leagues
• Snooker Home
• World Championship
• UK Championship
• Major events
• Tennis Home
• Australian Open
• Roland-Garros
• Mountain Bike Home
• UCI Track CL Home
• Men's standings
• Women's standings
• Cycling Home
• Race calendar
• Tour de France
• Vuelta a España
• Giro d'Italia
• Dare to Dream
• Alpine Skiing Home
• Athletics Home
• Diamond League
• World Championships
• World Athletics Indoor Championships
• Biathlon Home
• Cross-Country Skiing Home
• Cycling - Track
• Equestrian Home
• Figure Skating Home
• Formula E Home
• Calendar - results
• DP World Tour
• MotoGP Home
• Motorsports Home
• Speedway GP
• Clips and Highlights
• Olympics Home
• Olympic Channel
• Rugby World Cup predictor
• Premiership
• Champions Cup
• Challenge Cup
• All Leagues
• Ski Jumping Home
• Speedway GP Home
• Superbikes Home
• The Ocean Race Home
• Triathlon Home
• Hours of Le Mans
• Winter Sports Home

The Ocean Race 2022-23: What is the route? Which teams are involved? What are the boats? How to watch, stream

Updated 05/01/2023 at 17:42 GMT

The Ocean Race 2022-23 is set to start in January as teams sail across the world over a six-month period bidding to finish in the fastest time. Formerly known as the Volvo Ocean Race, it will start in Alicante, Spain and will go to South Africa, South America and then back to Europe. We look at everything you need to know, including the route, how to watch, and the teams involved.

'It's a magical race' - Get ready for The Ocean Race, 'another level' of sailing

What is The Ocean Race?

Kiel confirmed as starting point for the 2025 ocean race europe.

14/02/2024 at 14:10

• Ocean Race and Warner Bros. Discovery team up
• Ocean Race 2022-23 schedule

What’s the route for The Ocean Race?

• Leg 1: Alicante, Spain to Cabo Verde, leg start on January 15, 1,900 nautical miles
• Leg 2: Cabo Verde to Cape Town, South Africa leg start on January 25, 4,600 nautical miles
• Leg 3: Cape Town to Itajai, Brazil, leg start on February 26, 12,750 nautical miles
• Leg 4: Itajai to Newport, Rhode Island, leg start on April 23, 5,500 nautical miles
• Leg 5: Newport to Aarhus, Denmark, leg start on May 21, 3,500 nautical miles
• Leg 6: Aarhus to The Hague, Netherlands, leg start on June 8, 800 nautical miles
• Leg 7: The Hague to Genova, Italy, leg start on June 15, 2,200 nautical miles

How to watch and stream the Ocean Race

How to follow the ocean race tracker, what are the teams competing in the ocean race.

• 11th Hour Racing Team
• GUYOT environnement – Team Europe
• Team Malizia
• Biotherm Racing
• Holcim - PRB
• Team Poland
• Team Baltic
• Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team
• Team Mexico
• Austrian Ocean Racing

What are the boats at the Ocean Race 2022-23?

'live, engaging, immersive, and entertaining', ‘a massive survival element’ - lush on the ocean race ahead of new documentary.

02/11/2023 at 09:44

New Warner Bros. Discovery documentary goes behind-the-scenes of sailing's toughest team test

02/11/2023 at 09:40

A Voyage of Discovery: The Ocean Race - Coming Soon!

Stopover dates announced for The Ocean Race 2022-23

Dates for all eight stopovers, as well as a new Fly-By past Kiel, Germany, have now been confirmed for 14th edition of The Ocean Race

The Ocean Race 2022-23 will visit nine iconic international cities over a six-month period, with leg one starting from Alicante, Spain, on 15 January 2023.

The start of the 14th edition of The Ocean Race, early in the new year, will follow the Reyes holiday period in Spain, and see the two racing fleets (the foiling IMOCAs and one-design VO65s) depart on a 32,000 nautical mile (60,000 km) race around the world in separate divisions.

“The updated course and schedule for The Ocean Race 2022-23 provides an intense six-months of racing around the world and will challenge the best sailors and teams in a way that only The Ocean Race can do,” said Phil Lawrence, the Race Director.

“We have added the longest leg in the history of the event - taking the fleet three-quarters of the way around Antarctica - and for the first time, the race will start and finish in the Mediterranean.

“The winners of this edition of The Ocean Race will need to demonstrate elite skill, consistency across all manner of sea conditions, and resilience in the face of the inevitable setbacks. This will be beyond anything they will have encountered in any other sailing.”

The first leg is a 1,900 nautical mile sprint from Alicante to Cabo Verde, the first time the Race has stopped at the African archipelago. Historically, the fleets have sailed past the islands as they head south down the Atlantic. Whilst in Cabo Verde, The Ocean Race will take part in its famed Ocean Week, with a focus on local and international sustainability issues.

Leg 2 will start on 25 January and see the fleets racing across the equator, south to Cape Town, the 12th time the Race has stopped in the southern tip of Africa, making it the most visited stopover in this edition of the event. This will also be the first of three ‘haul-out’ stops, where the boats will be lifted from the water for maintenance.

Next up is a record-breaking leg - the longest racing distance in the 50-year history of the event - a 12,750 nautical mile, one-month marathon to Itajaí, Brazil.

In the finest tradition of The Ocean Race, this leg takes the IMOCA and VO65 sailors down to the Roaring Forties and Furious Fifties of the Southern Ocean. Antarctica is to the right and the fleet will need to pass all three great southern Capes - the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, and Cape Horn - to port, without stopping, for the first time.

There will be another extended, haul-out stopover in Itajaí, Brazil, following this epic southern leg before racing resumes heading north, through the doldrums, across the equator and up to Newport, Rhode Island, on the east coast of the United States.

From there, the Race returns to Europe, with a transatlantic leg to Aarhus, Denmark, followed by a Fly-By of Kiel, Germany, en route to a stop in The Hague, The Netherlands.

Then, it’s the final offshore leg - the Grand Finale - to Genova, Italy, for a Mediterranean finish to the race.

The Ocean Race 2022-23 - Race Schedule

To be confirmed - Prologue Race(s): September to December 2022 Alicante, Spain - Leg 1 start: 15 January 2023 Cabo Verde - ETA: 22 January; Leg 2 start: 25 January Cape Town, South Africa - ETA: 9 February; Leg 3 start: 26/27 February (TBC) Itajaí, Brazil - ETA: 1 April; Leg 4 start: 23 April Newport, RI, USA - ETA: 10 May; Leg 5 start: 21 May Aarhus, Denmark - ETA: 30 May; Leg 6 start: 8 June Kiel, Germany (Fly-By) - 9 June The Hague, The Netherlands - ETA: 11 June; Leg 7 start: 15 June Genova, Italy - The Grand Finale - ETA: 25 June, 2023; Final In-Port Race: 1 July, 2023

There will be in-port races in the days before the leg start in Alicante, Cape Town, Itajaí, Newport, Aarhus, The Hague and Genova. The in-port racing will be scored as a separate series for each fleet, with the result acting as a tie-breaker in the overall race.

The Kiel Fly-By is a new addition to the race course. The race was last in Germany for the finish of the 2001-02 edition, won by the German team, illbruck. Now, in this 14th edition, two German IMOCA teams have their sights set on the race - Offshore Team Germany and Team Malizia.

“It’s fantastic to have Kiel added as a Fly-By to what was already an iconic race route,” said Robert Stanjek, who skippered Offshore Team Germany to victory in the inaugural edition of The Ocean Race Europe this past spring. “This upcoming edition of The Ocean Race is shaping up as an incredible challenge and the opportunity to sail past a home crowd in Kiel as we near the end of our race around the world is a dream come true.”

There will be Prologue racing for both IMOCA and VO65 fleets scheduled in the second half of 2022, with details to be confirmed. Both fleets will assemble in Alicante during the holiday period at the end of 2022, ahead of the leg one start date on 15 January, 2023.

The Transat CIC, a prestigious lineup and some serious promises

On April 28th, 33 IMOCA skippers, 13 Class40 skippers, including some of the brightest and most talented, and 2 in the Vintage category, will set sail from Lorient. Their destination: New York City, navigating through a …

Boris Herrmann Awarded German Cross Of Merit

Team Malizia’s Boris Herrmann received one of Germany’s most prestigious recognitions today in a ceremony at Hamburg City Hall. The skipper was awarded the Cross of Merit for his achievements in climate action and sports…

Championship ranking

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

The Ocean Race: Was the latest edition a success?

• Helen Fretter
• September 4, 2023

The 2023 edition of The Ocean Race was all change for this historic event. Helen Fretter gets the inside story from the teams at the finish in Genoa

In the sweltering heat of midsummer in the Ligurian Sea, temperatures and tensions were steadily rising on board 11th Hour Racing . Simon ‘Si Fi’ Fisher restlessly tidied lines in the cockpit. Skipper Charlie Enright was glued to his phones, endlessly hitting refresh. “You were either in your bunk staring at the ceiling, or couldn’t sit still and just walking around talking to yourself. It was a weird place,” recalls crewmember Jack Bouttell of the long delivery from The Hague to Genoa.

With zephyr light winds, the IMOCA 60 ’s usual roar had been replaced with an uncomfortable quiet, broken only by the hum of the engine as the crew frantically tried to make headway to Genoa. It made no difference when they got there. After 36,000 miles of racing, nine months criss-crossing the world’s oceans, the result of The Ocean Race and the fate of the team would be decided by six people sitting in a room as an International Jury came together to decide if 11th Hour Racing should be granted redress after a terrifying collision in The Hague.

When the news came in that average points would be awarded for the final stage, there were no raucous howls of celebration. The four sailors aboard Malama sat, silently stunned, head in hands, as the engine hummed on. It was, by any count, a very strange way to win an around the world race.

11th Hour Racing Team cruising at speed in abnormally calm Southern Ocean conditions. Photo: Amory Ross/11th Hour Racing/The Ocean Race

A bit different

The 2023 The Ocean Race was always going to be a little bit different. While it marked the 50th anniversary of the first edition of the then-Whitbread Round the World Race, the changes for the 14th running of the event were peculiarly of its time.

It was the first edition of the race without a title sponsor. After Volvo sold the event after the last race, owners/organisers Johan Salem and Richard Brisius made it clear that they were not looking for a replacement main backer. The event was to stand on its own.

Most radically of all, there was a class change, with a new class for the foiling IMOCAs, and a second division for the well-proven VO65s (who only completed three legs).

When the shift to the foiling IMOCAs was first mooted, there were fears that the development class simply wouldn’t stand up the rigours of the race. While the IMOCA 60s are designed to withstand the toughest ocean conditions in the solo Vendée Globe , the strains on the boat, many argued, are different when there is a full team pushing 24/7 – and a shore team standing by at the end of each leg to piece the boats back together again. But those concerns weren’t universally shared. IMOCA class president Antoine Mermod told me in Genoa he was always confident the boats would be up to the job, having done analysis work with designer Juan Kouyoumdjian that showed the safety margins were remarkably similar between the two classes.

11th Hour Racing’s Charlie Enright in a good mood as they lead the fleet to Aarhus. Photo: Justine Mettraux/11th Hour Racing/TOR

“I was confident the boats would get round. In the last Vendée Globe we had 33 boats at the start, and at the end 29 finished – that means the class was in a very positive loop in terms of reliability.

“But hypothesis is one thing, and the reality is another. For sure, it was a big challenge to finish this race and to validate actually that our theory was right.”

The other challenge was to draw IMOCA entries in: and that comes down to money. “We were at a point where to win the Vendée Globe, you need something like €10-15 million for an IMOCA campaign where the returns were mostly in France. And The Ocean Race was the same kind of money to make a good campaign. But it was fully spent in 18 months,” said Mermod. To do both events, he estimates, is a 25-30% increase in budget – but gives sponsors double or triple the return.

Nevertheless, when just five IMOCAs lined up in Alicante for the start in January, doubts lingered. And with a 13,000-mile monster leg ahead of them from Cape Town, encircling the entire Southern Ocean, even a couple of retirements would throw the viability of the whole fleet into question.

There were plenty of points at which it looked like boats would fall out of the race. But what was remarkable was that while no boat escaped without issues, the teams – both sailing and shore – performed minor miracles to keep the show on the road.

Drone view of Team Malizia flying into the sunset during leg 4, Itajai to Newport, Rhode Island. Photo: Antoine Auriol/Team Malizia/The Ocean Race

Against the odds

Malizia suffered a potentially leg-ending tear to their mast a week into the Southern Ocean leg – the team making a heroic repair which held until the finish in Itajai; Holcim-PRB dropped their rig when a furler failed just four days into Leg 4 – their logistics team somehow getting a spare mast shipped to Newport in time for them to restart Leg 5; Guyot-environnement had to return to Cape Town after discovering cracking in Leg 3, then dismasted 600 miles off Newport, but returned to restart in Aarhus after 11th Hour Racing gave them the use of a spare mast.

While ocean racers are experienced in handling such incidents, and might report them as almost par for the course, it’s easy to forget how serious the dismasting of a 60ft yacht is. Annie Lush was racing on board Guyot-environnement. She recalls: “The dismasting was horrific when it happened because we were going into a big low pressure. We had virtually no sail up as we had a couple more hours or a few miles of storm left to get through. And when it happened, as with all good horror stories, it was in the middle of the night.

Guyot-environnement suffered a mast failure as well as hull lamination issues

“It was blowing 55 knots, big seaway, freezing water – I think 6°C. So when the mast came down, my first concern was that it would put a hole in the side of the boat. So it was quite an intense time until the mast was gone [cut away].

“Then there was the realisation we really had no fuel left because we were near the end of leg, and how on earth are we going to get anywhere? It was a really tough few days. We built the jury rig and that felt like an achievement. Then you realise you’re doing 1.5 knots against the Gulf Stream and not going anywhere.

“But one of my favourite moments of the race was when we managed to radio a ship coming past and he said he would help us.

“They filled seven 20lt jerry cans with diesel, and then tied them to some fenders with a light on, floated it out to us and it took us a couple of attempts to pick it up, but we managed to get it all on board. It was an amazing moment.”

Holcim-PRB lost its rig but managed to limp to shore in time to repair and restart. Photo: Georgia Schofield/polaRYSE/Holcim-PRB/TOR

Early favourites

The crew on 11th Hour Racing had more reasons than most to question the viability of their race. With the longest preparation time of any team, they were flagged as the early favourites, but outpaced by Holcim-PRB on the first two legs. Then going into the third, huge, Southern Ocean stage, things went wrong from the outset. First the team had to return to port after breaking batten end fittings in their mainsail during a gybe in Table Bay during the leg start.

“Four days into the Southern Ocean leg, the foil line broke and I had a complete meltdown like I’ve never had before,” recalls Jack Bouttell. “And it wasn’t the line – yes it’s a pain to repair, but you deal with it – but it was knowing that that was the difference between us being just behind Holcim-PRB, and falling off the back of that low. They ended up with a 700-mile lead, and I knew that would happen.

“Making a repair is only sailing 6-8 knots slower for 2 hours, but that’s enough when you’re trying to hang on to the back of a weather system.”

Jack Bouttell; re-leads a chafed outboard line on 11th Hour Racing. Photo: Amory Ross/11th Hour Racing/TOR

Tougher days yet were to come for 11th Hour Racing as they faced repair after repair. With rudder delamination and huge mainsail damage to contend with, simply getting to the finish became a battle.

“I see this race in two parts. Until Brazil, it’s about getting there. You don’t necessarily have to win the leg, but it’s about not losing the race there,” reflects Bouttell.

“We were all very aware that with the Southern Ocean in one leg, if something happened on that leg, it’s effectively game over from a winning perspective, because if you end up in Australia or New Zealand you either miss the next leg or have a massive logistical challenge and don’t have any time to prepare the boat at the other end.

“We faced that a few times in the south, like when the rudders were delaminating, when we were thinking can we realistically finish this leg? My mindset shifted to ‘we’ve just got to get the boat there, whatever happens.’ Because that’s what would keep this race alive for us.”

Biotherm’s Anthony Marchand tries to make sense of the weather forecast. Photo: Anne Beauge/Biotherm

Planned consistency

Having arrived in Itajai – after one final 50-knot knockdown – in 3rd overall, the American team needed to regroup if they were to stay in contention.

“I think on paper it might seem that things changed in Brazil,” skipper Charlie Enright reflected in Genoa, “but certainly our approach was consistent throughout: just try not to get high, not to get too low. Celebrating the good moments and learning from the bad ones and implementing those learnings over the course of the race.

“We always knew it was going to be the team that was sailing the best at the end of the race, and the team that improved the most over time that was going to take this thing home. And I think that’s what allowed us to believe.” There was, Enright admits, some tough management needed to turn the team around. “In this position, in an event like this, a sport like this, you’re forced with making some difficult decisions and it’s difficult for a reason. And sometimes the harder decision is the right decision. I think over time, I’ve become more willing and able to make those difficult decisions, despite what sometimes are uncomfortable consequences.”

One of the key decisions every team had to make was how to rotate crew. The demands of pushing the complex, tweaky and often temperamental IMOCAs around the world while racing four-up drove many crews to new levels of exhaustion. Most teams made planned crew rotations, with 11th Hour Racing hiring in exceptional talent including IMOCA champion Charlie Dalin and offshore legend Franck Cammas in the later legs of the race.

Cockpit life in the Southern Ocean: Biotherm’s Paul Meilhat, Anthony Marchand and Sam Davies. Photo: Ronan Gladu/Biotherm

But things happen quickly and unexpectedly in this race. Leg 4, from Itajai to Newport, saw Holcim-PRB dismasted in the early stages and Guyot-environnement in the latter. While the race leader was out, 11th Hour Racing handled the challenging North Atlantic conditions best for a dream finish 1st into their home port of Newport, Rhode Island.

Then just as Holcim-PRB had got themselves back into the race with a replacement rig, events ashore during the US stopover turned their campaign upside down. A sexual harassment claim was lodged against Holcim-PRB skipper Kevin Escoffier, and in Aarhus, after the transatlantic leg 5, he stepped down. Benjamin Schwartz, who’d been rostered on to navigate, was moved up to skipper.

“So I arrived on Friday evening, the in-port was on Sunday, when I got a phone call from Marinne [Derrien, team manager] saying: ‘This is the situation, do you want to take the role of skipper?’ I didn’t hesitate,” Schwartz said. “When you jump on the boat like that, if you want it to work, you have to leave your ego aside and work for the team. And that’s what each one of us did, and that’s why it worked,” he recalls.

11th Hour Racing, meanwhile, won their second back-to-back leg. From Aarhus to The Hague, they won again. The momentum shift was complete, and 11th Hour Racing set up for a fairy-tale comeback, with a two-point lead going into the last leg from The Hague to Genoa the race win was within touching distance. Then Guyot-environnement smashed into them shortly after the start.

Gut-wrenching crash

The videos of the crash in The Hague are a gut-wrenching watch. The reality of the port-starboard collision inside the cockpit on 11th Hour Racing was far worse.

“You’re already on this real adrenaline high when you start. The racing in-port is full-on and non-stop, and the boats are ripping around,” explains Bouttell. “We tacked over, and I heard Charlie say, ‘Starboard!’. Where I am for a manoeuvre, I can’t see to leeward, which was where Guyot were coming from. So Charlie was to leeward looking at them, and I heard ‘Starboard, starboard, starboard’. But that’s just part of sailing. Then I eventually looked down because he was just screaming and saw a bowsprit 4m away.

“The collision just brought me to tears instantly. Normally that release of emotion comes finishing the last leg. Whether you win or lose, it’s all the preparation before. It’s that pressure that keeps building for six months. It’s the fatigue that’s built up. It’s all these emotions. And normally you let that all go in relief when you finish the last leg. So it was quite a different way to feel it. And it was really heavy.”

After a momentary overwhelm of emotion, the whole team snapped back into managing the situation. “Two seconds later it was: is the rig still up? Is Charlie hurt? Is anyone hurt? We’re pointing straight at Malizia. The tiller’s snapped off, the boat’s filling up with water.

Annie Lush working on one of Guyot-environnement’s winches. Photo: Gauthier Lebec/GUYOT Team Europe/TOR

“I went into safety mode for the boat. Put the bulkhead hatches in, get the keel canted the other way, get the headsail ready to furl. Frankie [Francesca Clapcich] was sorting sheets and ropes in the water, thinking about getting the engine on. Amory [Ross, OBR] was helping on the bow and Si Fi did a really good job of managing the protocol.”

The team suspended racing, and lodged a protest. The question everyone was asking, was ‘now what?’.

Determined to arrive back in Genoa under sail, the 11th Hour Racing shore team pulled out one final miracle, rebuilding the smashed topsides in record time to allow the race crew to deliver the boat to the final stopover – though not in time for the protest hearing. Enright and Fisher assiduously prepared a protest case, with onshore meteorologist Marcel van Triest and team manager Mark Towill representing them on shore. And then, they waited.

When the jury decision came in, it awarded the overall race win to 11th Hour Racing. To honour their victory, the other teams spontaneously gathered outside the port of Genoa, circling after the afternoon’s pro-am races as a flotilla to escort the American team back in. The celebrations could finally begin. “It’s been 10 years trying to achieve this goal, and it still hasn’t sunk in yet,” said Enright some days later.

The VO65s raced a three-leg ‘Sprint Cup’, here closely matched in Aarhus, Denmark. Photo: Sailing Energy/The Ocean Race

Was the 2023 Ocean Race a success?

So was the IMOCA experiment a success? On many levels: absolutely.

When the rule changes were announced there was concern that one of the biggest legacies of the previous Volvo Ocean Race – the gender rules designed to improve female participation in the race – would be undone by the smaller crew numbers of the IMOCA fleet.

In fact, the opposite seems to have happened. Annie Lush, who was part of the all-female Team SCA for the 2014-15 Volvo Ocean Race then sailed with Brunel in the last edition, says progress has been marked for the female sailors who competed this time. “This race feels completely different. It’s completely changed. Abby [Ehler] said something like that there was diversity before, but now it’s inclusion, and now it feels like they are fundamentally in the fabric of the race and part of the teams.”

Holcim-PRB at the start of leg 7. Photo: Sailing Energy/The Ocean Race

With a full crew, the IMOCAs were able to deliver unheard-of record speeds. And the incredible work of the OBRs not only showcased the IMOCAs at full stretch mid-ocean in a way never seen before, but captured the intimacy of life on board in a four-man team that brought new characters to the fore – Malizia in particular winning fans all over the world.

With 11th Hour Racing’s win, the Ocean Race has delivered the first non-French victory in an IMOCA race around the world, and seems to signal a new internationalism creeping through the fleet.

It has been an impressive proof of concept. What it needs, above all, is more boats. Early indications are that more IMOCA teams will be keen to participate next time around, in part because of the huge knowledge gains made possible. “We launched a boat in September and in nine months I think we have done two Vendée Globes in terms of miles, two around the worlds now. It’s a really big step,” said Biotherm skipper Paul Meilhat.

“But I don’t do The Ocean Race to prepare for the Vendée Globe. I do The Ocean Race to do the race. For me this race is a return to basics, offshore sailing like it has been done for many centuries, travelling around the world by boat.” Some things don’t change after all.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Ocean Globe Race 2023: everything you need to know

• Katy Stickland
• August 23, 2023

The Ocean Globe Race will see 14 boats and their crews circumnavigating the world without the use of modern equipment, in the spirit of the 1973 Whitbread Race

All 14 teams taking part in the 2023 Ocean Globe Race will be racing with similar gear and boats as those who raced in the Whitbread Races of old. Credit: Philip McDonald Credit: Philip McDonald

What is unique about the Ocean Globe Race?

The Ocean Globe Race is a round-the-world yacht race, held to mark the 50th anniversary of the first Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973.

The Whitbread Round the World was the forerunner of The Volvo Ocean Race and The Ocean Race.

The first edition in 1973 started from Portsmouth and was the first fully crewed round the world yacht race.

Ramón Carlin, who skippered the Swan 65, Sayula II to victory in the first Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973-74. Credit: Getty

It followed the route of the great Clipper ships.

18 yachts – between 45ft-74ft- crossed the start line.

The 1973 Whitbread Race was won by the standard production Swan 65 yacht, Sayula II , skippered by Mexican Ramón Carlin. The yacht was crewed by family and friends, not professional sailors; this helped make yacht racing not just for the elite, but for the ordinary sailor.

What is the Ocean Globe Race?

The 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race is a 27,000-mile round the world yacht race with no assistance and without the use of modern technology.

This means the teams can’t use GPS , chartplotters , electric winches , spinnaker socks, Code 0 furling, electric autopilots, mobile phones,  computers, iPads or use synthetic materials like Spectra, Kevlar or Vectron.

Navigation will be done by sextant , paper charts and the stars.

Their only means of communication is via registered, licensed maritime-approved HF Single Side Band (SSB) Radio . HAM Radio transmission is banned.

Navigation is by sextant only. Here, the skipper of Outlaw, and the oldest entrant in the race, Campbell Mackie, 73,  and Outlaw’s crew, British sailor, India Syms take sights. Credit: OGR 2023/Outlaw/Spirit of Adelaide

Weather forecasts will be received via the radio or stand-alone paper print HF Radio weather fax.

Each boat can only carry no more than 11 sails (sloop) or 13 sails (ketch). Teams will be subject to a time penalty if they have to use replacement sails.

Approved items include desalinators, refrigeration, non-GPS digital cameras, electric clocks and headsail furling .

Teams will be penalised for using replacement sails during the 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race. Credit: Translated 9

The teams will also carry emergency gear, including a GPS chartplotter/AIS MOB plotting and locating system with a sealed screen for emergency use only by authorized crew, AIS Transponder and Alarm, Radar transponder and Alarm, Two SOLAS liferafts (200% crew capacity).

Every week, the team needs to run the boat’s engine for 30 minutes, with the prop turning.

Each boat should also carry standard operating procedures documents for man overboard (MOB), fire, dismasting, steering loss , grounding , serious injury, jury rig and other emergencies. Each team will have already carried out an MOB jury rig and emergency steering trials.

Where does the race start and finish, and what is the route?

The Ocean Globe Race 2023 will start at 1300 on 10 September 2023 from the Royal Yacht Squadron start line at Cowes, Isle of Wight.

The route of the 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race. Credit: OGR 23

It will have four legs.

The first leg – 6,650 miles – is from Southampton to Cape Town . The first boats are expected to finish between 9-21 October 2023.

The second leg – 6,650 miles – is from Cape Town to Auckland, New Zealand . It starts on 5 November 2023. The first boats are expected to finish between 14-23 December 2023

The third leg – 8,370 miles – is from Auckland, New Zealand to Punta del Este, Uruguay . It starts on 14 January 2024. The first boats are expected to finish between 9-18 February 2024.

The fourth leg – 5,430 miles – is from Punta del Este, Uruguay to Southampton . The first boats to cross the finish line are expected 1-10 April 2024.

Each team must reach port no later than 48 hours after the restart of the next leg or will be disqualified. A minimum stop of three days is mandatory, but the clock starts with the gun.

Which teams are taking part in the Ocean Globe Race?

218 sailors – 65 women and 153 men – will sail from Southampton. The teams are made of 23 nationalities including 96 crew from France, 31 from Finland, 18 from the UK, 18 from the USA, 11 from Italy and 6 from South Africa.

Tracy Edwards’s Maiden is the only all-female crew taking part. This was the case in the 1989-90 Whitbread Round the World Race.

Just in 1989-90, Maiden will be the only yacht racing with an all female crew. Credit: The Maiden Factor/OGR 2023

The captain, chief mate or one designated Ocean Yachtmaster must sail the entire race.

All entrants – who have to undergo a medical examination and have completed an approved medical/survival training course – must have onboard for each leg:

• 1 Ocean Yachtmaster
• 1 Yachtmaster
• 1 under 24 year old
• Maximum 70% crew swap at any stopover
• Maximum 33% professional crew ( 24-70 year old, paid to go sailing)

70% of the crew (including the Yachtmaster Ocean and Yachtmaster) registered for the start leg must complete a 1,500-mile non-stop ocean voyage all together in the entered yacht, after March 2023

The Ocean Globe Race has three classes:

• Adventure Class (47ft-56ft) is limited to 12 places, with a minimum crew of seven;
• Sayula Class (56.1ft-66ft) is limited to eight places, with a minimum crew of eight;
• Flyer Class is limited to eight places for yachts previously entered in the 1973, 1977 or 1981 Whitbread, or ‘relevant’ historic significance and ‘approved’ production-built, ocean-certified, sail-training yachts generally 55ft to 68ft LOA.

Adventure Class

There are 5 teams in this class.

Triana – France

The core of the Triana crew. Credit: Projet Triana/OGR2023

Led by Franch media entrepreneur, Jean d’Arthuys, the crew of Triana includes professional French sailor, Sébastien Audigane, who has sailed six roundings of Cape Horn and is a double holder of the Jules Verne Trophy – in 2017 on IDEC with Francis Joyon, and 2005 on Orange 2 with Bruno Peyron.

Audigane is the First Mate onboard  Triana, a 1987-built Swan 53, designed by German Friers.

Sterna – South Africa

The crew of Sterna have completed several Atlantic crossings on the Swan 53; the team are pictured in Martinique, ahead of their second transatlantic crossing. Credit: Allspice Yachting

Allspice Yachting entered the Ocean Globe Race in December 2019 after founder Gerrit Louw was inspired by the 2018 Golden Globe Race.

The Swan 53, Sterna of Allspice Yachting will be skippered by professional South African sailor, Rufus Brand, who hopes the race will allow him to fulfil his dream of circumnavigating the world.

The First Mate and navigator is South African Melissa Du Toit.

Sterna of Allspice Yachting is a modified Swan 53, built in 1988. Some of the yacht’s unique features include a custom keel with an improved righting movement, a 135hp engine (instead of the normal 85hp engine) and expanded water and diesel tanks for offshore sailing .

Allspice Yachting bought the yacht in 2021 for the Ocean Globe Race, and a crew sailed her from Grenada to the boat’s home port of Cape Town to prepare Sterna for the race.

Galiana WithSecure – Finland

The skipper of Galiana WithSecure , Tapio Lehtinen hopes the Ocean Globe Race will result in a new generation of offshore Finnish yacht racers. Credit: Sanoma Media Finland Kaikki oikeudet/Juhani Niiranen/HS

The Swan 55 will be skippered by the 2018 and 2022 Golden Globe Race veteran, Finnish sailor, Tapio Lehtinen. First mate is Ville Norra, who has a history of sailing keelboats and offshore.

The Galiana WithSecure team is one of the youngest taking part in the Ocean Globe Race , with the majority of those on board under 30 years of age; only two members of the team have ‘strong racing DNA’, while the others come from Optimist, Sea Scout or other sailing backgrounds.

Lehtinen is a veteran of the 1981-82 Whitbread Race when at the age of 23, he earned a place as watch captain on Skopbank Finland , a C&C Baltic 51 skippered by Kenneth Gahmberg.

His motivation for entering the Ocean Globe Race with a young team is to encourage young Finnish sailors into ocean sailing; Lehtinen also wants to raise awareness of the impact of climate change on the world’s oceans and has only partnered with companies and organisations which promote solutions to this global problem.

Outlaw – Australia

Some members of the Outlaw crew. Credit: Aïda Valceanu/ OGR2023

The Baltic 55, Outlaw , is a Whitbread Race veteran, having raced in the 1985-86 edition as Equity and Law .

Built in 1984 to Lloyds of London specifications, the Douglas Peterson-designed Outlaw will be skippered by Campbell Mackie.

The Australian sailor has 70,000 ocean miles under his belt, having taken part in the 2015-16 Clipper Round the World Race and the 2017-18 edition, where he was First Mate on Sanya , the winning boat.

First Mate is Dutch professional sailor, Rinze Vallinga.

Godspeed – USA

The crew of Godspeed is made up of American military veterans. Credit: Skeleton Crew

The Swan 51, Godspeed is the only American boat to enter the race.

The skipper is Taylor Grieger, a former US Navy veteran, who has assembled a crew made up of representatives from the US military services.

Grieger suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after years spent as a US Navy rescue swimmer. Along with friend, Stephen O’Shea, he sailed a leaking 1983 Watkins 36CC from Pensacola, Florida, through the Panama Canal and down the South American coast to Cape Horn . The film of their voyage – Hell or High Seas – has been released.

Following this, Grieger set up Skeleton Crew Adventures, to help other veterans to recover from PTSD through sailing.

Sayula Class

There are four entries in this class.

Explorer – Australia

The crew of Explorer, skippered by Mark Sinclair. Credit: Don McIntyre/ OGR2023

Explorer was designed by Olin Stephens and was launched in 1977. The boat is owned by the founder of the Ocean Globe Race, Don McIntyre.

The yacht will be skippered by 2018 and 2022 Golden Globe Race veteran, UK-born Australian Mark Sinclair , who has circumnavigated the world with one stop.

The Yachtmaster Offshore, a former Royal Australian Navy Commander, has over 60,000 sailing miles under his belt.

Explorer ‘s Chief Mate is Terry Kavanagh, a liveboard sailor from Ireland who was circumnavigating the world aboard his yacht when he decided to take part in the race. He also has experience sailing in Arctic Norway.

White Shadow – Spain

Crew training aboard White Shadow in the Mediterranean. Credit: OGR/ White Shadow

The only Spanish entry in the Ocean Globe Race, White Shadow is a Swan 57, built in 1978.

The yacht will be skippered by owner French offshore racer, Jean-Christophe Petit, who has also completed four Atlantic crossings .

The mixed crew  – from France, Italy, Turkey, Spain, Argentina, Belgium and Colombia – are aged from 20 to 57.

Evrika – France

The Swan 65, Evrika . At the time, the Swan 65 was the largest GRP construction yacht , and was one of the designs that led the racing circuit in the 70s-80s. Credit: Sophie Dingwall

Previously owned by Pink Floyd’s Rick Wright, who lived aboard her in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, Evrika also has strong racing credentials, having won the Swan Cup in the 1980s.

The Swan 65 was built in 1982 with a ketch rig ; the yacht has been extensively restored for the race including a new teak deck, and remodelling down below, including layout changes in the forward cabin. Nearly all changes were in keeping with the yacht’s original style and materials.

Evrika will be skippered by French sailor and boat builder Dominique Dubois.

Originally the team was to race the Swan 651, Futuro , but in February 2023, the boat was blown from its cradle during Storm Gérard; the damage cost more than the value of the boat.

Dubois then bought Evrika from Brit Richard Little, who had entered the Ocean Globe Race, but later withdrew.

Spirit of Helsinki – Finland

The crew of Spirit of Helsinki prepare to leave Finland for the race start in Southampton. Credit: OGR2023 / Team Spirit of Helsinki

Designed by German Frers and built by Nautor in 1984, the Swan 651 sloop, Spirit of Helsinki was built specifically for the Whitbread Round the World Race and was raced to third place in the 1986 edition under the name Fazer Finland .

The all Finnish crew is led by hotel entrepreneur and amateur sailor and racer, Jussi Paavoseppä.

First Mate is professional sea captain Pasi Palmu, who has worked as a full-time racing sailor and sailing coach for over 15 years.

Flyer Class

There are 5 entries in this class.

Maiden – UK

The Maiden crew: Skipper: Heather Thomas (UK), First Mate: Rachel Burgess (UK) Crew: Willow Bland (UK) Lana Coomes (USA), Payal Gupta (India), Ami Hopkins (UK), Vuyisile Jaca (South Africa), Junella King (Antigua), Molly Lapointe (Porto Rico/USA), Kate Legard (UK), Najiba Noori (Afghanistan), Flavia Onore (Italy), Dhanya A Pilo (India). Credit: The Maiden Factor-Kaia Bint Savage

Maiden is the only UK entry in the race.

The Bruce-Farr 58ft yacht will be skippered by British sailor, Heather Thomas, 26 and her crew will be all female – just as in the 1989-90 Whitbread Race when the boat was skippered by Tracy Edwards.

Thomas, who was previously a watch leader on the training vessel James Cook, run by the Ocean Youth Trust North, has previously sailed the Pacific leg of the 2015-16 Clipper Round the World Race with the Da Nang Viet Nam team, after winning a place onboard.

The yacht was skippered by Wendy Tuck, who went on to become the first woman to win a round the world yacht race when she led her Sanya Serenity Coast team to victory in the 2017-18 edition of the Clipper Race .

The Maiden team ranges in age from 18 to 42, with the majority of the crew competing in all four legs of the race.

Previously to the Ocean Globe Race, Maide n has been sailing around the world to promote education for girls through The Maiden Factor.

Pen Duick VI – France

Marie Tabarly has sailed Pen Duick VI since she was a child. Credit: James Tomlinsen

Led by the daughter of French sailing legend, Éric Tabarly, the Pen Duick VI team’s goal is not just the race, but to raise awareness of the Elemen’Terre project, which looks at environmental and social global issues.

Marie Tabarly is one of two female skippers in the race (the other is Maiden ‘s skipper, Heather Thomas).

The professional racing sailor, who competed in the 15th Transat Jacques Vabre with Louis Duc aboard the IMOCA 60, Kostum Lantana Paysage , has extensive offshore experience, having sailed Pen Duick VI since childhood. She has also recently completed a circumnavigation of the world with Pen Duick VI .

At 73ft LOA, Pen Duick VI is the largest yacht taking part in the 2023 Ocean Globe Race

The 73ft Pen Duick VI was built specifically by Éric Tabarly for the 1973-74 Whitbread Race.

The yacht dismasted twice in the race – during the 1st and 3rd legs, but she was repaired and went on to win the 1974 Bermuda-Plymouth race, the 1976 Atlantic Triangle Race and the 1976 OSTAR.

Renamed Euromarché, the yacht came 5th in the 1981-82 Whitbread Race.

Neptune – France

Designed by André Mauric, Neptune was launched in July 1977, before racing in the 1977-78 Whitbread Race to 8th place.

The 60ft aluminium sloop will be skippered by professional ophthalmologist Tanneguy Raffray, who is one of France’s most successful International 8 metre class racers, aboard Hispania IV , which he restored.

Neptune racing in the 1977 Whitbread Race. Credit: Ocean Frontiers OGR/ GGR/CG580

The refit of Neptune for the Ocean Globe Race was overseen by Finot-Conq naval architect, Erwan Gourdon, who is also part of the crew, and included four watertight bulkheads, furling headsails and a new sail plan.

The team also includes French sailor, Bertrand Delhom, who aims to become the first sailor with Parkinson’s disease to race around the world.

Translated 9 – Italy

The Translated 9 crew has a party in Rome ahead of leaving for the start village in Southampton, UK. Credit: Antonio Masiello

The first edition of the Whitbread Round the World Race was won in 1974 by the family and friends of Mexican Ramón Carlin, who skippered the Swan 65 yacht, Sayula II.

The Translated 9 team is following in their wake; 1,000 amateurs, new to ocean sailing, applied for a position on the 13-strong crew.

The Swan 65 is being skippered by owner Marco Trombetti and professional racer and boat designer Vittorio Malingri , who was the first Italian to race in a Vendée Globe (1993) and was part of Giovanni Soldini’s crew on the TIM trimaran.

British skipper Clare Francis and the crew of ADC Accutrac together in 1977 Whitbread. They’re looking forward to meeting the crew of Translated 9 at the Whitbread Reunion on 5 September. Credit: Dr Nick Milligan

Malingri’s son Nico is First Mate and has also previously sailed with Giovanni Soldini

With Nico, Malingri also holds the Dakar to Guadeloupe 20ft Performance record, having sailed 2,551nm in 11 days, 1 hour, 9 minutes and 30 seconds.

The crew also includes 2022 Golden Globe Race veteran, Simon Curwen, who took line honours in the race and was first in the Chichester Class.

The Sparkman and Stephens’s designed Translated 9 was originally ADC Accutrac , which was raced to 5th place by British skipper, Clare Francis in the 1977 Whitbread Around the World Race.

L’Esprit d’Equipe – France

The L’Esprit d’Équipe team. Credit: Team L’Esprit d’Équipe

The Philippe Briand-designed 58ft yacht was built by Dufour and has strong Whitbread Race roots.

It is the only boat in the Ocean Globe Race to have won at Whitbread Race (in the 1985-86 edition, skippered by Lionel Péan; it was the smallest boat in this edition. Modifications to save weight included shortening the boat’s rear arch, moving the keel further back and installing a 27m mast)

The French team is led by professional boat builder and sailor, Lionel Regnier, a seasoned racer, who won the OSTAR in 2005 and has taken part in three Mini Transats, and numerous Class 40 races, including the 2006 and 2014 Route du Rhum

His First Mate is Pierre-Yves, who has project managed most of Lionel’s races since 2003 and has raced in the Transat Jacques Vabre.

Continues below…

Ocean Globe Race 2023 to start from Southampton

The Ocean Globe Race - which is being held to mark the 50th anniversary of the first Whitbread Round the…

Whitbread race veterans invited to 50th anniversary reunion

A reunion for all Whitbread Round the World race crew and skippers is being held in the run up to…

Coming of age: the 1970s yacht designs that have stood the test of time

Sailing in the 1970s was characterised by innovation, enthusiasm, mass participation and home boatbuilding. Rupert Holmes reports

How sailing gear has changed over the decades

Peter Poland reflects on pulling out the lead line, lobbing a Walker log over the stern and unpacking a sextant…

Which boats will be raced during the Ocean Globe Race?

L’Esprit d’Équipe is the only boat in the Ocean Globe Race to have won at Whitbread Race (in the 1985-86 edition. Credit: RORC / James Mitchell / James Tomlinson

All boats in the Adventure and Sayula classes must be ocean-going GRP production yachts designed before 1988 and from an approved design list which includes the Swan 47, Swan 47, Swan 48, Swan 51, Swan 53, Swan 55, Swan 57, Swan 59, Swan 61, Swan 65, Swan 651, Nicholson 55, Baltic 51, Baltic 55, Baltic 64, Oyster 48 and Grand Soleil 52.

The Baltic 55, Outlaw was previously raced in the 1985-86 Whitbread Race. Credit: Outlaw Team

All yachts must be fitted with a bow crash bulkhead. A main watertight bulkhead and watertight door are recommended immediately forward of the saloon along with a second watertight bulkhead forward of the rudder post.

Severn former Whitbread Race boats will be taking part in the Ocean Globe Race:

• Maiden (previously Disque D’Or 3 , 1981-82 Whitbread; raced as Maiden in 1989-90 Whitbread)
• Pen Duick VI (1973-74 Whitbread; raced as Euromarché in the 1981-82 Whitbread)
• Translated 9 (previously ADC Accutrac , 1977-78 Whitbread)
• Neptune (1977-78 Whitbread)
• L’Esprit d’Equipe (previously 33 Export , 1981-82 Whitbread; L’Esprit d’Equipe , 1985-86 Whitbread; Esprit de Liberté , 1989-90 Whitbread)
• Outlaw (previously Equity and Law , 1985-86 Whitbread)
• Spirit of Helsinki (previously Fazer, Finland , 1985-86 Whitbread)

How can I follow the Ocean Globe Race?

All 14 boats taking part in the 2023 Ocean Globe Race can be seen at the Ocean Village Marina in Southampton from 29 August 2023. Credit: Ocean Frontiers OGR/ GGR/CG580/Pic suppliers

The Ocean Globe Race village at Ocean Village, Southampton will open to the public from 29 August 2023 until the race start. It is free to enter.

Daily events will include celestial navigation demonstrations (2-4, 6 September from 14:00 hrs), as well as a chance to see the 14 boats and meet their crews.

Tours will take place every day from 29 August between 13:o0 hrs and 17:00 hrs and can be booked via Eventbrite in advance or on the day ( https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ocean-globe-race-2023-pontoon-access-tickets-700811284417 ).

Visitors taking a tour will have the option to make a small charitable donation before the tour which will go to support the Blue Marine Foundation, Ocean Youth Trust (South) and The Maiden Factor Foundation.

Tuesday 29 August, 11:00 hrs – Official Ribbon Cutting Friday 1 September, 13:30 hrs – A Welcome from the City of Southampton Friday 1 September, 18:30 hrs – MDL Captain’s Dinner and Charity Auction Saturday, 2 September, 13;00 hrs – Writer and broadcaster, Paul Heiney talks about his tales of sailing the Atlantic single-handed Tuesday 5 September, 17:30 hrs – Whitbread Veterans Reunion Thursday 7 September, 10 hrs – OGR Final Press Conference Friday 8 September, 18:00 hrs – MDL Whitbread 50th Anniversary Farewell Hog Roast Party Saturday 9 September, 14:00 hrs – OGR Teams’ Public Farewell presentation Sunday 10 September, 09:00 hrs – Full Teams parade of honour from MDL Race Village to their yachts 13:00 hrs – RACE START – Royal Yacht Squadron start line, Cowes, UK. Viewing of the start line can be seen from the beaches in Gurnard, Isle of Wight or Lepe Beach in the New Forest.

The race can be followed via the Ocean Globe Race website and Facebook page .

The teams can also be followed via YB Tracking .

Enjoyed reading this article?

A subscription to Practical Boat Owner magazine costs around 40% less than the cover price .

Print and digital editions are available through Magazines Direct – where you can also find the latest deals .

PBO is packed with information to help you get the most from boat ownership – whether sail or power.

• Take your DIY skills to the next level with trusted advice on boat maintenance and repairs
• Impartial in-depth gear reviews
• Practical cruising tips for making the most of your time afloat

Follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter

Published on March 19th, 2024 | by Assoc Editor

Ocean Globe Race: Slow and challenging

Published on March 19th, 2024 by Assoc Editor -->

It’s been a slow, challenging two weeks of racing for the 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race sailors up the Brazilian Coast for the entire fleet, but L’Esprit d’équipe’s decision to take the most Easterly route is paying off, for now. And, the crew is clearly delighted to finally be topping the fleet. “After 2 weeks of racing, L’Esprit d’équipe is at the forefront. A second youth for this boat full of history,” tweeted L’Esprit d’équipe.

West and just five nm ahead of L’Esprit d’équipe, is Pen Duick VI. Marie Tabarly and her Pen Duick VI crew took line honors in Punta del Este, so it’s not a title she’s going to hand over easily. Tabarly explained how she views the race to date, “In fact, a race in 4 legs is a bit like a horse-eventing competition. The first leg, the descent of the Atlantic. Equivalent to the dressage event. Finesse, rigor. No adrenaline or great danger, but a lot of precision and technique.

“The second and third legs, the great South. The Cross Country. Where we gallop like crazy at 550 meters per minute, jumping huge fixed obstacles, where the trust between rider and horse is paramount. Adrenaline pumping, the event is long, intense, and dangerous.

“Finally, the last event, show jumping. Mobile obstacles that can fall, to test the freshness, respect, and concentration of the horse after the other 2 events. For us, it’s the ascent of the Atlantic, with all its pitfalls and after 7 months at sea. Really full of traps: Cabo Frio, the Atlantic cold front, the Doldrums, the Azores anticyclone, the Bay of Biscay. The air is hot, the sails worn, their usage ranges are therefore different. The guys are tired too. To be taken into account in the decisions.”

The crew of Pen Duick VI sailing the much-loved 73ft Bermudan Ketch were keen to get back on the water and recommence their personal battle against Translated 9 who they see as their love/hate on-the-water nemesis. Translated 9, a Swan 65, formerly known as ADC Accutrac when sailed in the 1977 Whitbread, retired from Leg 3 after stopping in the Falkland Islands for essential repairs after discovering hull damage. They currently sit 3rd in IRC for leg 4 and 5th in line honors – something they will certainly want to improve on – another yacht that doesn’t like not being on top.

The French Swan 53, Triana skippered by Jean d’Arthuys, ranks a provisional 1st in the combined IRC results but has been struggling since the start of Leg 4 continually falling into windless holes. One of the smallest yachts in the fleet, she is currently 10th in IRC and line honors. For Triana’s crew, who have impressed everyone with the performance in previous legs, their current slow progress is proving difficult to swallow. At the time of writing Triana was wallowing just 5nm ahead of White Shadow and just 15nm ahead of Explorer the last boat in the fleet – not somewhere they are used to being.

Jean D’Arthuys, skipper of Triana, said, “It’s not easy, we’ve had no wind now for 5 or 6 days. It’s beginning to feel long, so it’s a psychological battle. But we have to be patient and make the boat work with the wind we have. The wind is always changing direction and strength so this is very, very hard.”

Admitted skipper Jean d’Arthuys let it be known he and his crew were not enjoying being stuck and finding it hard to put in such enormous effort for just 50 nm of progress in 24hrs.

But in such fluky weather, things can change quickly, and nothing is certain for the French. Just days ago, the Finns were leading in both line honours and IRC rankings. Galiana WithSecure, a Swan 55 and oldest yacht in the fleet was leading in IRC with the former Whitbread entrant Spirit of Helsinki FR (71) leading in line honours, but their success was short-lived. We all know the saying about the fat lady.

“Deja vu from the 1st leg. Thought yesterday that we finally got into the trades with a stiff and stable NE breeze. Nope, TWD 330, 10kn, moving,” reported Galiana WithSecure.

Meanwhile, Spirit of Helsinki has been keeping us fully informed of their fishing antics while struggling to catch the wind and stay on top of the leaderboard.

“Where are the “trade winds”? Argg, had a fight with a white marlin around 80lbs, marlin won. Reel was smoking. Dreaming about leg 5,” said Spirit of Helsink. They also just reported, “We lost the fridge today! Totally.”

Fickle winds have meant very slow progress for the whole fleet since the race start on March 5th, averaging around 118 nm a day!! And with no South Easterly trades the fleet is now split into three groups. And with more holes than a fisherman’s net, it’s been tactical choices that have produced the essential minimal race gains.

Maiden, who led in the first week, has dropped back and now sits third in line honors. But they’ve had bigger issues than their ranking with a potential water crisis. With both their generator and inverter out of action just 3 days into the race, this meant their watermaker was not functioning. Concerning, not only for a yacht heading into the doldrums but the fact they rely primarily on freeze-dried food – requiring water.

One week out the skipper advised OGR they were down to just one week of water with over 5000 miles to go. Options discussed included a 48hr time penalty for opening their emergency manual desalinator or receiving water from SPIRIT OF HELSINKI which would knock them out of the rankings for leg 4. Fortunately, the next day it rained and filled their tanks.

Then after much radio communication and advice received from the rest of the fleet, a week of hard work resulted in the crew getting the generator back up and running. So now they’re asking for the rain to stop! But having got Maiden’s mechanics back up and running it is back to school.

“Celestial navigation is currently all the rage on Maiden! A constant frenzy around the nav desk, many students quickly becoming masters,” tweeted Maiden.

Neptune and Evrika, have both opted for the most Westerly option in the fleet. While progress is painfully slow, they’re still managing to enjoy every precious moment at sea. “Hairdresser session for some, St Patrick’s aperitif at sunset, it’s nice to be together in this beautiful atmosphere,” tweeted Neptune.

Outlaw and Sterna are also both suffering from broken fridges or freezers meaning the meat eaters onboard were forced to get busy! And might not be hungry for a while. “The galley freezer on Outlaw has decided to run out of gas! Half of our frozen meat is in there. Race is on to cook and eat it before it spoils,” said Outlaw.

“Who needs a freezer or fridge when survival is mainly ensured by the fan? Can you also make wind with it???,” tweeted Sterna.

Meanwhile, White Shadow, Sterna and Explorer are bringing up the rear of the fleet. But, with such slow progress to date, only 600 nm separates the fleet from leader to tail-enders. The coming week is going to prove very challenging mentally for sailors who still have the doldrums to endure.

And for the number crunchers amongst you, we have some OGR statistics! And boy are they interesting! Most impressive is the fact that almost 30% of the 243 OGR sailors are women, a great start for an inaugural event in a traditionally male-dominated arena. Progress, with more to do and the ideal race to do it in.

With five French yachts in the fleet, it’s hardly too surprising that there are 110 French sailors. The two Finnish yachts boost the number of Finns participating to 38. Sailors from 26 different nationalities have joined the OGR including sailors from Japan, Afghanistan, Netherlands, Ireland, Canada, Antigua, Belgium and the Czech Republic.

There are now 137 sailors who can boast that they’ve sailed around Cape Horn and by the end of Leg 4, there will be 81 hardy folk bragging about becoming Full Curcumnavigators.

RACE STATISTICS Number of sailors to take part in the OGR: 243 Number of women: 71 Number of French: 110 Number of Finnish: 38 Number of British: 22 Number of Nationalities: 26 New Cape Horner: 137 Round the Worlders: 81 Youngest sailor – 17 years old Oldest sailor – 73 years old

As part of the OGR Notice of Race each yacht has their waste weighed on arrival into port.

Average figures for waste in each stopover Plastic – 224.5 KG Metal – 161.5 KG Paper – 38.5 KG Glass – 83.5 KG Card – 8KG Mixed-Recycling – 248 KG Non-Recycling – 80 KG Total – 844 KG

Event information – Race rules – Entry list – Tracker

No longer racing: • Swan 51 Godspeed (USA) – retired after Leg 1

The 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race (OGR) is a fully crewed, retro race, in the spirit of the 1973 Whitbread Round the World Race, marking the 50th Anniversary of the original event. Racing without computers, GPS, and high-tech materials, they navigate with sextants and paper charts. Seven of the fleet are former Whitbread competitors.

Starting in Southampton (UK) on September 10, the OGR is a 27,000-mile sprint around the Globe, divided into four legs that passes south of the three great Capes. The fleet is divided in three classes with stop-overs in Cape Town, South Africa; Auckland, New Zealand; and Punta del Este, Uruguay before returning to Southhampton in April 2024.

2023-24 Ocean Globe Race: FIRST LEG: Start 10 September 2023. 7800 miles. First boats finish 9-21 October 2023. SECOND LEG: Start 5 November 2023. 7250 miles. First boats finish 14-23 December 2023. THIRD LEG: Start 14 January 2024. 6500 miles. First boats finish 9-14 February 2024. FOURTH LEG: Start 5 March. 6550 miles. Finish 1-10 April 2024.

Tags: Ocean Globe Race

Related Posts

Dramatic start for Ocean Globe Race →

Final leg for 2023-24 Ocean Globe Race →

Ocean Globe Race arrives in Uruguay →

Karma’s gonna track you down →

© 2024 Scuttlebutt Sailing News. Inbox Communications, Inc. All Rights Reserved. made by VSSL Agency .

• Privacy Statement
• Advertise With Us

Get Your Sailing News Fix!

Your download by email.

• Your Name...
• Your Email... *
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

She’s the first American woman to sail around world solo in race — and she’s from Maine

A s the sun rose, only one mile separated Cole Brauer from the coast of A Coruña in Spain, where a crowd of supporters eagerly awaited her arrival after 130 days alone at sea. The 40-foot yacht First Light sliced through the waves, its blue and red sails emblazoned with “USA 54″ billowing against the wind. Victory in sight, Brauer stood at the bow and spread her arms wide, a safety flare sparkling in each hand. As she neared the finish line, the 29-year-old sailor hollered and cheered, flashing a wide smile.

At 8:23 a.m. on March 7, Brauer made history. Four months after setting sail from A Coruña for the Global Solo Challenge , Brauer became the first American woman to race around the world without stopping or assistance. The youngest skipper and the only female competitor, Brauer finished second out of 16 racers.

Advertisement

“I’m so stoked,” Brauer, of Boothbay Harbor , Maine, said in a livestream as she approached the end . She wore a headlamp over her beanie with the words “wild feminist” across the top, and a couple of boats trailed her. “I can’t believe it. I still feel like I’ve got another couple months left of this craziness. It’s a really weird feeling.”

She circumnavigated the globe by way of the three great capes — Good Hope, Leeuwin, and Horn — headlands that extend out into the open sea from South Africa, Australia, and Chile, respectively, and are notorious for presenting a challenge to sailors. Throughout, Brauer documented the arduous 30,000-mile journey in full on her Instagram feed. She amassed hundreds of thousands of followers, introducing many of them to the sport and upending stereotypes of a professional sailor.

Brauer, who is 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighs just 100 pounds, has long defied expectations and overcome skepticism in reaching the pinnacle of the yachting world.

“I’ve always been not the correct mold. I had a guy who used to always tell me, ‘You’re always on trial because the second you walk in the door, you have three strikes against you. You’re young, you’re a woman, and you’re small,’” she recalled in a recent interview. “Now with my platform, I don’t have to be as careful about what I say or do because people care about me because of me — not because I’m a sailor.”

In her videos documenting her long days at sea, she was often vulnerable, crying into the camera when First Light had autopilot issues and sea conditions caused the boat to broach , throwing her hard against the wall and bruising her ribs. She was giddy, showing off her new pajamas on Christmas Eve and dancing in a pink dress on New Year’s Day . As her popularity soared, she was a guide for the uninitiated, providing a breakdown of her sailing routes , her workouts and meals, and how she replaces equipment alone .

A native of Long Island, N.Y., she spent her childhood on the water, kayaking with her sister across the bay to school and finding comfort in the roll of the tide. She went to the University of Hawaii at Manoa , where, longing to be back on the ocean, she joined the sailing team. Brauer learned quickly, becoming a standout and winning the school’s most prestigious athletics award.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by COLE BRAUER OCEAN RACING (@colebraueroceanracing)

After college, she moved to the East Coast, hoping to start a career in sailing. But she found it difficult to break into the male-dominated industry.

“It was very difficult. I got a lot of ‘nos’. A lot of, ‘No way, we want nothing to do with you. You’re a liability,’” Brauer recalled.

Undeterred, she took whatever job she could, often for little pay.

Brauer found her footing in Boothbay Harbor , where her parents, Kim and David, were living. She coached the junior sailing team at the yacht club and met yacht captain Tim Fetsch, who became her mentor. While talking with Fetsch one night over dinner, Brauer shared her goal of competing in the prestigious Ocean Race , known as “sailing’s greatest round-the-world challenge.”

He sent her “ Taking on the World ,” Ellen MacArthur’s book on finishing the Vendée Globe, a solo round-the-world race, at 24. She cried while reading it.

“They allowed me to flourish in Maine,” she said.

With Fetsch, she delivered boats to Mystic, Conn., and Newport, R.I., a sailing capital where Fetsch introduced her to his connections and she “was accepted pretty early on as as a worker bee.”

Her big break arrived when she became the boat captain for Michael Hennessy’s Class40 Dragon . She spent several years captaining Dragon and delivering it to races along the East Coast and the Caribbean.

In 2022, she was invited to try out for the Ocean Race. But after the two-week trials in France , where she sailed with a fully crewed team, she was dismissed. They told her she was too small.

“They didn’t want the 100-pound girl unless you were, you know, one of those big guys’ girlfriends, and I was not going to be that,” she said.

Describing the story to a couple of friends after the trials, Brauer made a vow — “I guess I just gotta go around the world alone.”

“It’s almost good that it happened because I needed that to push me over the edge,” she said. “I needed them to make me feel so little that I would do anything to be big.”

Later that year, Dragon was sold to a pair of brothers, who renamed it First Light and said Brauer could keep sailing it for the season. In June, Brauer and her co-skipper, Cat Chimney, became the first women to win the 24th Bermuda One-Two Yacht Race . After the victory, Brauer was prepared to take a break from competition and enjoy a “gorgeous Newport summer.”

Her sponsors had other plans. “You need to take the momentum with this win,” Brauer recalled the brothers saying. “This is probably your one and only chance to really show the world, and we’re willing to help.”

She set her sights on the Global Solo Challenge . First Light underwent a refit. With little time to prepare, Brauer suffered panic attacks and became worryingly thin. But the sailing community rallied around her and she assembled her team.

“Newport said, ‘You are our child, and we’re going to take care of you,’” she recalled.

Brauer took off from Spain on Oct. 29, and her online profile began to rise as she chronicled the voyage. The sudden isolation was overwhelming at the start, bringing her to tears at least once a day.

At one point in the race, while bobbing along in the Southern Ocean, things looked bleak. She was in excruciating pain after being slammed into the side of the boat and could hardly move. First Light was having issues with its autopilot system and she kept having to replace deteriorating parts.

“It took the entire team and my own mental state and my mother and my whole family to kind of be like, ‘You’re tough enough, like you can do this. You can get yourself out of this,’” she said.

In a race where more than half the competitors pulled out, their boats unable to withstand the harsh conditions, Brauer often listened to music on headphones to lower her anxiety.

“This is your everything. You don’t want to lose it,” she said. “Mentally, no one in the entire world knows what you’re feeling. They can’t understand the weather or the wind patterns.”

Her team monitored her by cameras, and she spoke each day to those close to her, including her mom, whom she FaceTimed every morning (she used Starlink for internet access). Sometimes they would just sit in silence. Brauer found comfort interacting with her Instagram followers, who peppered her with questions about sailing terminology and sent her messages of affirmation.

She made a ritual of watching the sunset and sunrise, each different than the last.

“Those were the most magical moments,” she said. “No obstructions, no buildings, no cars to ruin the sound.”

As she approached the finish, she described how surreal it felt that the journey was about to be over.

“It’s such a weird feeling seeing everyone. I’m trying to learn how to interact again with people, so we’ll see how this goes,” Brauer said with a slight smile and laugh on her livestream. “I don’t really know how to feel. I don’t really know how to act. I don’t really know how to be.”

Shannon Larson can be reached at [email protected] . Follow her @shannonlarson98 .

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

10 Facts About Futures Trading That Every Investor Should Know

10 Facts about Americans in Spain

40 facts about elektrostal.

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
• With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

You are using a very outdated website browser. Upgrade your browser or install Google Chrome to better experience this site.

Latest News: Winners and losers Leg 4 of McIntyre Ocean Globe Race

days hrs mins secs

2023 Ocean Globe Race announces Ocean Village Southampton UK as start port

• UK start for the 50th anniversary celebration of the first 1973 Whitbread Race saved by anonymous corporate partner and MDL Marinas bringing this iconic sailing race home to Southampton
• Tracy Edwards and her Maiden team, the only UK entrant in the OGR, are excited to relive their Whitbread dream once again and race around the world
• 15 yachts including six previous Whitbread entrants and one Whitbread winner confirmed for the September 10th OGR start

When Don McIntyre decided in 2015 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first ever Whitbread crewed race around the world, it had to start in the UK. That’s where the Whitbread story began.

He did the same thing when deciding to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race which also started from the UK. Sadly no support came from British ports so the 2018 GGR went to Les Sables d’Olonne in France (home of the Vendee Globe) where it was welcomed with open arms and strong investment that generated US$185m in media returns. The third edition GGR2022 is due to finish there in a few weeks.

Until now it looked like the Ocean Globe Race was going the same way. In an October 2022 press release announcing Cape Town, Auckland and Punta Del Este as the OGR stopover ports and after years of trying, OGR announced that ‘sadly UK ports are not interested in hosting the start and finish of this epic adventure and historic occasion’. Final discussions were underway with European ports for the hosting rights.

Fortunately that statement was picked up by a large corporate entity with UK connections. They felt strongly that the OGR should stay in the UK. At the same time MDL Marinas wanted to save the event for the UK as a celebration of their own 50th anniversary. They were passionate about bringing this iconic sailing race back to Southampton and their Ocean Village Marina , the home of so many previous Whitbread races. A deal was struck with both parties and now Ocean Village Southampton is the home of the OGR! This is a huge win for the UK that has seen other significant events move to Europe.

I am absolutely thrilled to have MDL onboard for the 2023 Ocean Globe Race and starting from Ocean Village in Southampton is a personal dream for me. Now, in September, the UK public and sailors everywhere will be able to celebrate an important part of their maritime culture with a true recreation of those first amateur sailors racing into the unknown! Don McIntyre, Ocean Globe Race Founder & Owner of McIntyre Adventure

On 10 September 2023, over 160 sailors will depart Ocean Village onboard the 15 yachts to complete the four leg, 30,000 mile race around the world via the three great capes; Africa’s Cape of Good Hope, Australia’s Cape Leeuwin, and South America’s notorious Cape Horn. Onboard the privately-owned, pre-1988 classic sailing boats, the international, mixed-gender crews will have no GPS, no high-tech equipment and no computers. They will navigate using only a sextant, paper charts and the stars with all communications by HF SSB radios. They will return in April 2024.

Six of the yachts competing have taken part in one or more of the Whitbread races (including the first French yacht to ever win the Whitbread) to which they are now paying homage. One of the most notable is Tracy Edwards ’ Farr 58 Maiden . In 1990, Tracy triumphantly brought home the first ever all-female Whitbread crew onboard Maiden to Ocean Village Marina. At the time, it was estimated that almost 50,000 people came to witness this momentous event, which helped to turn the tide on women’s participation in sailing.

What better way to celebrate MDL Marina’s 50th anniversary than to join forces with Don McIntyre to bring the Ocean Globe Race to life to celebrate the iconic Whitbread Round the World race as it also turns 50. By hosting the start of this retro edition of the historic race at our Ocean Village Marina, we’re hoping to recreate the jubilant atmosphere of the early races, welcoming crowds of supporters, capturing the imagination of visitors and inspiring the next generation of round the world sailors. Working closely with Southampton City Council and McIntyre Adventure it’s an honor and privilege to be part of this event, building on Southampton’s already proud maritime heritage. And there’s plenty of opportunities for businesses, both marine and non-marine, to be front and centre of all the action at the Race Village. Tim Mayer, Sales and Marketing Director at MDL Marinas

The Race Village at Ocean Village Marina will open on 26 August 2023, two weeks prior to the start of the race on 10 September. During the run up to the start, the Race Village will host speakers, pre-race activities, past race screenings, hospitality and entertainment as well as the media centre and sailors’ briefing area.

This is very good news indeed! I am delighted to hear that the 50th anniversary celebration of the first Whitbread is starting out of Ocean Village. This OGR will be a great race and huge adventure and tribute to all those original Whitbread sailors. Sir Chay Blyth OGR Patron and Official Starter

This is a chance for all UK sailors and yacht clubs to show they want and support these major events by heading out to the start, visiting the race village or volunteering to help the organisers make the event even bigger!

Any business interested in getting involved and partnering with this historic event in Ocean Village should contact Tim Mayer via [email protected] . For more information on the Ocean Globe Race visit https://oceangloberace.com . For more information on MDL and its marinas visit www.mdlmarinas.co.uk .

Don McIntyre OGR Chairman and Founder

Don McIntyre is the founder and underwriter of the goldengloberace.com the oceangloberace.com and the minigloberace.com . Follow him at mcintyreadventure.com .

• ← Prev Post
• Next Post →

O°G°R Latest News

Crew Stories

Join our mailing list

Get all the latest McIntyre Adventure news delivered to your email.

Technical Partners

Official suppliers.

Associations

Refuelling underway at Russia’s floating NPP

!{Model.Description}

The fresh fuel cassettes were delivered to Pevek by in special shipping containers along the Northern Sea Route in October by Rosatom’s fuel company TVEL and were immediately transferred aboard the FNPP. The manufacturer of nuclear fuel for all Russian nuclear icebreakers, as well as the Akademik Lomonosov, is the Mashinostroitelny Zavod (MSZ - part of TVEL) in Elektrostal, Moscow Region.

The loading of fresh fuel cassettes is being carried out into the reactor on the starboard side of the FNPP. Refuelling of the second reactor is planned for 2024. “When carrying out work to transship the nuclear fuel, all necessary measures were taken to meet radiation safety requirements,” said Alexey Fedotov, chief engineer at PATEC. “Before loading them into the reactor, each of the 121 fuel assemblies passed strict acceptance control. After a thorough check by specialists, all assemblies are sequentially placed in the reactor using automated crane equipment.” The reloading operation is planned to be completed before the end of this year. Maxim Shamambaev, the head of nuclear safety for the FNPP, said the radiation background in the region did not change during the work and remained at the natural background level for Pevek.

The installation of the FNPP in Chukotka aimed to solve two key problems. First it was to replace the retiring capacities of the Bilibino NPP, which began operating in1974, as well as the Chaunskaya thermal power plant, which is already more than 70 years old. Second, it was to supply energy to the main mining enterprises located in western Chukotka - a large ore and metal cluster, including gold mining companies and projects related to the development of the Baimskaya ore zone.

By the end of 2023, power generation to Pevek from the FNPP since it began operation in 2020 will total 200 GWh. The population of Pevek is just over 4,000. However, the plant can potentially provide electricity to a city with a population of up to 100,000.

Image courtesy of Rosatom

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Newsletter sign up
• Digital Edition
• Editorial Standards

For the first time Rosatom Fuel Division supplied fresh nuclear fuel to the world’s only floating nuclear cogeneration plant in the Arctic

The fuel was supplied to the northernmost town of Russia along the Northern Sea Route.

The first in the history of the power plant refueling, that is, the replacement of spent nuclear fuel with fresh one, is planned to begin before 2024. The manufacturer of nuclear fuel for all Russian nuclear icebreakers, as well as the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, is Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC), a company of Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL that is based in Elektrostal, Moscow Region.

The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactors of the icebreaking type. Unlike convenient ground-based large reactors (that require partial replacement of fuel rods once every 12-18 months), in the case of these reactors, the refueling takes place once every few years and includes unloading of the entire reactor core and loading of fresh fuel into the reactor.

The cores of KLT-40 reactors of the Akademik Lomonosov floating power unit have a number of advantages compared to the reference ones: a cassette core was used for the first time in the history of the unit, which made it possible to increase the fuel energy resource to 3-3.5 years between refuelings, and also reduce the fuel component of the electricity cost by one and a half times. The FNPP operating experience formed the basis for the designs of reactors for nuclear icebreakers of the newest series 22220. Three such icebreakers have been launched by now.

For the first time the power units of the Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear power plant were connected to the grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020. The supply of nuclear fuel from Elektrostal to Pevek and its loading into the second reactor is planned for 2024. The total power of the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, supplied to the coastal grid of Pevek without thermal energy consumption on shore, is about 76 MW, being about 44 MW in the maximum thermal power supply mode. The FNPP generated 194 million kWh according to the results of 2023. The population of Pevek is just a little more than 4 thousand, while the FNPP has a potential for supplying electricity to a city with a population of up to 100 thousand people. After the FNPP commissioning two goals were achieved. These include first of all the replacement of the retiring capacities of the Bilibino NPP, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya TPP, which has already been operating for more than 70 years. Secondly, energy is supplied to the main mining companies in western Chukotka in the Chaun-Bilibino energy hub a large ore and metal cluster, including gold mining companies and projects related to the development of the Baimsk ore zone. In September 2023, a 110 kilovolt power transmission line with a length of 490 kilometers was put into operation, connecting the towns of Pevek and Bilibino. The line increased the reliability of energy supply from the FNPP to both Bilibino consumers and mining companies, the largest of which is the Baimsky GOK. The comprehensive development of the Russian Arctic is a national strategic priority. To increase the NSR traffic is of paramount importance for accomplishment of the tasks set in the field of cargo shipping. This logistics corridor is being developed due regular freight voyages, construction of new nuclear-powered icebreakers and modernization of the relevant infrastructure. Rosatom companies are actively involved in this work. Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL (Rosatom Fuel Division) includes companies fabricating nuclear fuel, converting and enriching uranium, manufacturing gas centrifuges, conducting researches and producing designs. As the only nuclear fuel supplier to Russian NPPs, TVEL supplies fuel for a total of 75 power reactors in 15 countries, for research reactors in nine countries, as well as for propulsion reactors of the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth power reactor in the world runs on TVEL fuel. Rosatom Fuel Division is the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium and the leader on the global stable isotope market. The Fuel Division is actively developing new businesses in chemistry, metallurgy, energy storage technologies, 3D printing, digital products, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. TVEL also includes Rosatom integrators for additive technologies and electricity storage systems. Rosenergoatom, Joint-Stock Company is part of Rosatom Electric Power Division and one of the largest companies in the industry acting as an operator of nuclear power plants. It includes, as its branches, 11 operating NPPs, including the FNPP, the Scientific and Technical Center for Emergency Operations at NPPs, Design and Engineering as well as Technological companies. In total, 37 power units with a total installed capacity of over 29.5 GW are in operation at 11 nuclear power plants in Russia. Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC, Elektrostal) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of fuel for nuclear power plants. The company produces fuel assemblies for VVER-440, VVER-1000, RBMK-1000, BN-600,800, VK-50, EGP-6; powders and fuel pellets intended for supply to foreign customers. It also produces nuclear fuel for research reactors. The plant belongs to the TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom.

Rosatom obtained a license for the first land-based SMR in Russia

On April 21, Rosenergoatom obtained a license issued by Rostekhnadzor to construct the Yakutsk land-based SMR in the Ust-Yansky District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

ROSATOM and FEDC agree to cooperate in the construction of Russia's first onshore SNPP

ROSATOM and FEDC have signed a cooperation agreement to build Russia's first onshore SNPP in Yakutia.

Rosatom develops nuclear fuel for modernized floating power units

Rosatom has completed the development of nuclear fuel for the RITM-200S small modular reactor designed for the upgraded floating power units.