Going Solo
Global sailing competition, The Race Around, has announced the inclusion of Class40 vessels in a new category.
11 March 2021
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The around-the-world, multi-staged yacht race, The Race Around has recently announced that a new solo category will run alongside the already announced double-handed fleet.
In addition to the announcement, in a move that evokes memories of the highly successful “BOC Challenge” and the “Around Alone” era, organisers of The Race Around have also increased the number of entries from 25 to 35 with the inclusion of five wild cards.
Sam Holliday, the Managing Director of The Race Around said: “Since announcing The Race Around in late 2019, we’ve been blown away by the level of interest around the race and have taken the time to speak with a number of those looking to compete.
“It has become clear that the Class40 continues to boom, and we have to take into account a growing trend of those wanting to compete in a global event that goes beyond the traditional reach of Class40,” he added.
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The inclusion of the solo category will now the race will have two trophies: The Race Around Trophy for the solo class and The Race Around Cup for the double-handed fleet class.
“Upon making this decision, our main thought has always been to provide a race that aligns with the ethos of an international Class, raced by both amateurs and professionals and The Race Around remains exactly that,” said The Race Around Co-Founder, Hugh Piggin.
“The ability to choose the category that best suits the respective competitors will allow a varied and interesting mix between professionals seeking glory and seasoned amateurs looking for an adventure of a lifetime whilst racing alongside and against some of the sports established names.”
Further to the inclusion of a solo category, The Race Around have also signed a long-term partnership agreement with the Class40 Association. This agreement will ensure The Race Around’s continued success beyond the first edition, which will start in 2023, and is intended to provide the best racing opportunities possible while ensuring a greater level of technological collaboration in safety, sustainability, and event qualification.
Halvard Mabire, President of the Class40 Association said on the decision: “We’re delighted to have signed a long-term partnership agreement between our two organisations. It is clear that The Race Around is looking to establish itself as one of the great ocean races and we, as a Class, are proud to work alongside them in a true partnership.
“The inclusion of a solo class allows us to dream once again of the golden era of the BOC Challenge and Around Alone, races in which the racing was tough and adventure was real.
“Today’s announcement allows further opportunity for competitors to stay within the class and for partners and sponsors to gain exposure on a global platform whilst also providing seasoned amateurs the ability to complete a lifelong goal of circumnavigating the globe.”
Scheduled to begin in the winter of 2023, The Race Around is a short-handed, classical, multi-staged around the world yacht race intended to provide “fierce racing within a friendly atmosphere at an affordable price point and achievable timeframe.”
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