Global Solo Challenge
It’s been an incredibly busy time behind the scenes at the Global Solo Challenge (GSC), as the event continues to gain remarkable momentum. With over 100 potential candidates expressing interest from 23 nations, the GSC is proving to be one of the most accessible and internationally diverse solo sailing events. Just in the last few weeks, three more skippers have formalized their participation, bringing the total number of registered entries to 12, with many more expected to follow.
Today, we are delighted to introduce the latest sailor to join the Challenge: Italian skipper Marcello Queirolo. Marcello brings decades of maritime experience, a deep passion for sailing, and a commitment to achieving his dream in the true spirit of the GSC. He plans to compete aboard his Elan 37, a boat he already owns and has lovingly modified over the years to suit his solo sailing ambitions. Marcello embodies the event’s inclusive ethos, choosing to adapt his existing boat rather than pursue a more performance-oriented option.
Marcello’s story highlights the essence of the GSC: offering sailors from all walks of life a platform to take on the immense challenge of a solo, nonstop, around-the-world circumnavigation. The staggered-start format ensures a level playing field, allowing older or slower boats to compete alongside more modern, faster vessels. This innovative approach not only makes the GSC more affordable but also more inclusive, providing opportunities for amateur sailors to fulfill personal dreams and for emerging talent to use the event as a stepping stone to professional offshore racing careers.
The GSC has also drawn the attention of young sailors and semi-professional skippers, some of whom are eyeing the event as an alternative to the high costs of racing circuits such as Class40 following a Mini Transat campaign. While latest Class40 budgets have skyrocketed into the realm of professional racing, the GSC opens an alternative door and will remain true to its mission of affordability, with campaigns achievable at a fraction of the cost. For Marcello, this accessibility was a deciding factor, as he looks forward to his upcoming retirement in January 2025, which will give him time to focus on his preparations.
About The Skipper
Marcello Queirolo
Nationality: ITA
Boat: IAIAI – Elan 37 (Hamphrey)
Lives: San Canzian d’Isonzo (GO), Italy
Born in: 1960
Miles sailed: 25,000+
Status: Provisional Entry
Where does your passion for sailing come from?
I have been traveling on ships since 1976, starting as a deckhand, and the sea has always been my favorite place. However, my passion for sailing developed later in life—quite late, I’d say—but it is genuine and brings me immense happiness.
What lessons have you learnt from sailing?
The journey is what truly matters.
What brought you to like single-handed sailing?
It is the best way to connect with the sea, your boat, and yourself. It forces you to think carefully before taking any action, helping you understand and appreciate many things that you take for granted on land.
What prompted you to sign up for this event?
The format of the GSC is perfect for low-budget, private sailors like me.
How do you plan to prepare for this event?
I plan to work on my boat, improve myself, and sail as much as possible since I will retire from my job starting January 1, 2025.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge?
I expect many tough moments, particularly dealing with the sea conditions in the south and maintaining focus.
Tell us about your boat or the boat you would like to have.
My boat is an Elan 37, which I have modified over the years to suit my solo sailing passion and, most recently, to comply with the GSC rules.
Do you intend to link this personal challenge to a social message?
Yes, my message is: War Ends When Dialogue Begins.
Sailing experience
Over the years, I have sailed double-handed in many classic Adriatic regattas such as La500 and La200. I have also completed several single-handed voyages across the Mediterranean, sailing from Trieste to Malta, the Aeolian Islands, and back.
About The Boat
Boat Name: IAIAI
Sail Number: ITA 15373
Boat design: Elan 37 (Hamphrey)
Year built: 2007
LOA: 37ft
Displacement: 6600kgs
Upwind sail area: 72m2
Downwind sail area: 142m2
