First Indian To Complete The Golden Globe Race:
Abhilash Tomy created history as the first Indian to complete the Golden Globe Race.
- The Golden Globe Race is being conducted by the K.’s Sir Robin Knox Johnston.
- Objective is to commemorate the world’s first solo non-stop circumnavigation undertaken by him in 1968, onboard the Indian-built boat Suhaili.
- Participants in the GGR are required to sail around the world, single-handed and non-stop.
- The uniqueness of the race is that boat designs and technology newer than 1968 are not permitted.
- Also, the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS), satellite communication and navigational aids are forbidden in the 30,000-mile journey
- The sailors each have a satellite phone and emergency locator beacons to be used for medical emergencies only.
- Entrants are limited to sailing similar yachts, between 32 ft and 36 ft, designed prior to 1988 with a full-length keel with a rudder.
- Equipment similar to what was available to Sir Robin in that first race was to be used.
- 16 sailors from 11 countries depart from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France
