GLOBAL SOLO CHALLENGEINTERESTRonnie Simpson’s Open 50 is the 52nd entry in Global Solo Challenge August 23, 2022FacebookXPinterestWhatsApp Global Solo ChallengeRonnie Simpson from Honolulu in Hawaii is one of the most experienced sailors entered in the Global Solo Challenge to date. At 37 years of age, he is in his prime physical condition to take on this challenge, which he hopes to be a stepping stone for his ultimate dream: participating in a Vendée Globe. He has chosen a 1994 fixed keel David Lyons Open 50 originally designed for the BOC Challenge and that has proven itself as a reliable boat in many voyages ever since, including a round trip from the US to Cape Horn and back with her previous owner.We are very pleased to have attracted Ronnie’s entry which raises the number of confirmed Open 50s entries to 4, with 2 more potential skippers in the process of making a final decision. As a combat-wounded and retired Marine Corps veteran Ronnie certainly does not lack determination and drive, two key factors in pulling off a round the world campaign. His extensive sailing experience will shorten the time required to become acquainted with the boat and ready to set off.Ronnie’s 52nd entry does not come as a surprise, as we still have several skippers trying to put together their campaign. Some prefer to do so in the background and only announce the project when they are sure they can make it, others come forward and public in earlier stages, hoping to attract interest in their campaign. Whatever the strategy, fundraising is a common challenge for all participants. Some have decided to put their campaign on hold and have, for the time being, withdrawn their entry. Others may still come forward, especially after the Route du Rhum, where several boats/skippers that could potentially enter the GSC will be on the starting blocks. The final number of starters is anyone’s guess, but even if just half of the entered skippers eventually made it to the starting line, the GSC would certainly earn itself a sizeable place in the panorama of offshore solo yachting events.As organisers we are incredibly happy with how things are developing, several high profile skippers have been in touch recently, indicating a progressive increase in the interest from more experienced and professional skippers. As in Ronnie’s case, the GSC could over time become a stepping stone before a Vendée Globe campaign where skippers can demonstrate their skills and affirm their credibility as offshore sailors. Boat name: SparrowProject: Open 50 fixed keel (David Lyons)Sail number: USA 56914Year: 1994LOA: 50ftDisplacement: 8,180 kgsUpwind sail area: A lotDownwind sail area: Even moreShare this: Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook Share on X (Opens in new window) X Like this:Like Loading...Related
