19 sailors, alone with no outside assistance will sail 30.000 miles non-stop!
11 June, 2018
In celebration of Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, who was the first person to single-handedly sail non-stop around the world during the Sunday Times Golden Globe Yacht Race, a new Golden Globe Race marking the 50th anniversary of the epic event will take place in 2018. All entries in the 2018 Golden Globe Race will depart Les Sables-d’Olonne, France on the first of July and sail solo, non-stop around the world, via the five Great Capes and return to Les Sables-d’Olonne.
Are Wiig will be the only Norwegian participant in this regatta. Are is a professional seaman and yacht surveyor from Oslo with more than 50 years of sailing experience.
“The 2018 Golden Globe event is a dream come true. When I heard about the race 3 years ago, I signed up right away,” says Are Wiig. “I am looking very much forward to doing it, this will be a great regatta and competition. My goal is to complete the race within eight or nine months.”
Wiig will sail an Olle Enderlein designed OE32 class yacht named Olleanna. To enhance Are’s onboard safety he has decided to have a range of Jotron safety products with him on the yacht including; two GPS EPIRBs, a GMDSS radar transponder, a handheld GMDSS VHF radio and a few strobe lights.
The Golden Globe Race 2018 is a retro sail regatta and participants are limited to sailing with similar classed yachts and equipment as to what was available to Sir Robin for the first race. Essentially, sailing without any of the benefits of today’s technology or satellite based navigation aids. All participants will compete in simple sailing yachts using basic equipment, only what is necessary, this should guarantee a satisfying and personal experience.
“I will navigate using with sextant on paper charts, without electronical instruments or auto piloting. My log will be hand-written and I will set my own weather forecast,” says Wiig. “The safety equipment, however, must be top notch, modern and fulfill the strict requirements or the organizer. I am thrilled to have Jotron product by my side ensuring my safety at sea.”
Are Wiig has spent countless hours on preparing his yacht and racked up several sailing hours to prepare himself for what is expected to be an exciting and long journey over the coming months. To finance Wiig’s participation in this race, his wife agreed to sell their home. If Are succeeds, he will be the first Norwegian ever to complete a non-stop solo regatta around the world!
Photo: Are Wiig sailing Olleanna – an Olle Enderlein designed OE32 class yacht
Follow the Golden Globe Race: http://goldengloberace.com/ or https://www.facebook.com/goldengloberace/
For more information about Are Wiig at: www.facebook.com/aresailing/ or www.aresailing.no
