On the Eve of Adventure: Dafydd Hughes’s kickoff to the Global Solo Challenge

Dafydd Hughes ©GlobalSoloChallenge

Nearly three years have passed since the launch of the Global Solo Challenge (GSC), which was first announced in December 2020. These were years filled with many decisions to be taken, efforts to promote the event, and meticulous preparations as skippers geared up to embark on this grand adventure, chasing a lifelong dream. The wait is nearly over: the first of several starting guns is set to go off on August 26th at 15:00 local time (13:00 UTC), marking the beginning of this incredible challenge.

Marco Nannini, the brain and driving force behind the GSC, shared his thoughts on this pivotal moment: “The first departure of the Global Solo Challenge is a great thrill for me too. To think that just under three years ago the idea for this event was born, and to now meet the competitors who have dedicated so much effort and resources to prepare, gives a much more tangible sense to the work done so far.”

“I obviously follow many races as an ex-sailor and enthusiast and there are many differences, not just in the format. The staggered starts format makes it difficult to create the ambiance of a grand departure with the celebrations, the crowd, and the spotlights on everyone; replaced by a more intimate last few days for the Skippers with family and friends seeing them off. As a competitor, it can be a bit stressful to have too many commitments dictated by the organisation ahead of the start, so it’s not necessarily a negative aspect. Reversing the order of departure based on performance, I hope, will create an event with a continuously growing interest from the public up to the arrival: the final outcome will be uncertain until the end. I am very satisfied with how things are going for this first edition, and I want to thank sponsors and partners who supported us as well as the entrants who worked so hard to be on the start line. For those that have missed the opportunity to join this inaugural edition, we plan to stage the next one in 2027-2028.”

Given the unique format of the event, with boats grouped by performance characteristics setting off in successive departures, Welsh skipper Dafydd Hughes, born in 1960, will be the first to set sail aboard “Bendigedig”, a Sparkman and Stephens 34. “I feel it’s an honor to inaugurate such an extraordinary event, and it’s fantastic to know that everyone will have to follow me.” Dafydd commented.

The skipper, who is expected to take at least 200 days to complete his circumnavigation, arrived in A Coruna in mid-August a few days at sea from his native Wales. This provided him a moment to reflect on the monumental task ahead and to take stock of the extensive preparation that brought him to the starting line. “The journey from Talybont, West Wales to A Coruna was surreal at moments, making me ponder the next time I’d sail into these waters and what experiences I’d have gathered by then. Being on the starting line itself feels monumental. The magnitude of this undertaking is no small feat. Everything needs precision – you can’t just settle for ‘good enough’. Each component, each decision must be spot on; it needs to function precisely when called upon.”

Dafydd has become known for his friendly smile and has consistently showcased his optimistic outlook on life. However, the challenge ahead will require more than just optimism: a very varied mix of skills is needed to take on such a project. Dafydd outlines specific traits of his character that may become pivotal in his journey around the world: “One of my strongest traits that will aid me during this trip is my comfort with solitude. I’m quite adept at being on my own and can productively fill my day. Even when it seems like I’m not actively doing something, I’m constantly engaged in small tasks on the boat. Having spent nearly my entire life in construction, I’ve cultivated a strategic mindset and hands-on skills that I believe will prove invaluable throughout the journey.”

Based on the current weather forecasts, it seems Dafydd’s departure will be accompanied by a light northerly wind, strengthening to 20-25 knots along the Portuguese coast. Given that the average hull speed of his vessel is around 6.5 knots, what initial strategy will he adopt? “Looking at the overarching scenario, I’m inclined towards the traditional western route. I have Simon Rowell supporting me from land. He’s the go-to weather expert for the British sailing team. Simon delves into the overarching weather patterns, as sifting through such vast data can be daunting. On my end, I pull more localised weather reports when necessary. It’s a collaborative approach we’ve established.”

“Simon and I have been discussing aiming for roughly 27 degrees west at the latitude of Eastern Brazil, but that hinges on the conditions we encounter and the position of the narrowest part of the Doldrums. For a boat like mine, which isn’t the fastest, the direct route might present an edge. While vessels like the Class 40s can tap into robust winds and cruise at impressive speeds, facing a windless stretch for a week can be mentally gruelling. That’s our strategy for now, but in sailing, as you’re aware, tactics constantly evolve based on changing weather. With the staggered start, each boat might face distinct weather patterns. I could set off under clear skies only for things to turn swiftly, or the opposite might hold. Ultimately, it’s up to nature and fate.”

Dafydd has set three goals for his GSC journey: to complete the course, to fully embrace every moment of his voyage, and to use his experience as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging others to chase their dreams. Many are tuning into his social media channels where he shares glimpses of his preparations. This aspect of sharing has proven to be profoundly meaningful for him as well.

“In my journey and navigation, it’s not so much the sea or the boat that stands out, but the people. The sheer volume of support and encouragement I’ve received, even from those I’ve never met, has been astounding. It’s deeply humbling. On those tough days when it feels like everything is against me, knowing there’s a vast community rooting for me makes a world of difference. It serves as a potent reminder that we’re never truly alone in our endeavours.”

It’s not just the support of his followers that Dafydd draws strength and encouragement, but also from his family, the primary pillar backing and cheering him on in his round-the-world adventure. “My family has always been aware of my adventurous spirit. My kids have grown up knowing their dad is a bit unconventional. I had previously participated in the round-the-world Clipper Race, and during that journey, they even visited me in Australia at a stopover. While they’re in awe of my sense of adventure, they also recognise the risks associated with such endeavours. Naturally, nobody wants to see a loved one venture into potentially dangerous situations. But they understand my passion and wouldn’t dream of holding me back from pursuing what I love.”

Here are the heartfelt words of support and affection his family sent him on the eve of his departure:

“Dad, you’re my hero.
From watching you dream up this adventure, to committing to the GSC, and now conquering the milestone of getting to the start line, I could explode with pride. You’re a lunatic, in the best type of way and we love you for it. This odyssey will be epic and we are with you every single nautical mile.
Dream. Commit. Conquer. All the way.”
Lizzy, Dafydd’s daughter

“Dad you’re bonkers!
I’m so proud to call you my father. I think even making it to the start line is an achievement in itself! Initially, the reality of how epic this challenge is had not sunk in, it’s only when you’re telling others about the challenge and the responses such as “he’s going solo?!” and “he’s not allowed to stop?!” You start to realise how mad it really is!
If there’s one person I believe can smash this challenge it’s you dad!”
James, Dafydd’s son

“I’m so proud of what you have achieved so far, you’ve got this, so enjoy it and see you when you get back xx”
Joanna, Dafydd’s partner

“Go bro! Will save you an Easter egg!”
Sian, Dafydd’s sister

“Dafydd bach,
We’re so happy to have you and your challenge as part of our family. We’re with you with every wind that blows. Cymer ofal a mwynha dy hun. (“take care and enjoy yourself”, in Welsh)
A.Mair a U.Mac”
Mair and Mac, aunt and uncle of Dafydd

“Hi Dafydd, as for all of us, I believe preparation and finances have been a mountain to climb. It must be a huge relief to find yourself at the GSC starting line. One might say you’re going on a vacation. The truth is you are embarking on the Everest of mountains. I think I speak for everyone when I say, “May Poseidon be kind and we are right behind you.”
Curt Morlock, USA

“I have been watching Dafydds S&S34 barn project since it began, and he should be immensely proud of his achievement and finally getting to the start line. Sadly, I am unable to remain in Spain, due to Schengen rules, to meet and celebrate with Dafydd before the start. I wish you all the best Dafydd in your historic circumnavigation, and I’m sure you will have a lot of local and global fans cheering you along.”
Kevin Le Poidevin, Australia

“Dafydd, may the wind and waves be at your back! Wishing you all the best as you head for the finish line!”
Ivan Dimov, Italy

“I’d hoped to meet Dafydd in A Coruña before he begins his race, but as I was ambushed by Covid in Bermuda, and I’m still in recovery mode, I won’t be able to make it. That’s a disappointment to me as Dafydd has been an inspiration since the earliest days of the Global Solo Challenge story by the way he has doggedly pursued his preparations, as well as sharing the story with his fellow sailors. I wish him every success on his pending circumnavigation.”
Peter Bourke, USA

“For Dafydd, I wish him fair winds, to lead the way for us, and above all, to have fun and enjoy every moment.”
Louis Robein, France

“Go Dafydd go, go go go!!! Nobody ahead of you, opening the route for all of us, thank you! Be strong, be wise, be safe and we all meet in A Coruña next year. Fair winds, amico mio!”
Alessandro Tosetti, Italy

“Dear Dafydd, dear Bendigedig, we are happy and proud to put you in charge of opening this fantastic long journey. Your enthusiasm and professionalism ensure your success. Fair winds, and let’s all meet in A Coruña in March!”
François Gouin, France

“Excitement! With Dafydd in A Coruña, ready for the start, everything feels even more real. We’ve never met in person, yet I feel a profound sense of camaraderie, a brotherhood among all of us involved in this great adventure – the organisers, the sailors, the families and friends, and the ever-growing audience.
Dafydd, kudos to you. No one will have it harder than you, as you’ll be the one spending the most time at sea. In every race, of any kind, the applause often goes to the fastest boats that finish first, and sometimes we forget about those who endure the longest time out on the waters. My applause is for you; you have my utmost admiration. I promise I’ll sail as best as my boat and I can, hoping to arrive before you – ideally at the finish line in A Coruña. Keep your boots dry!”
Juan Merediz, Spain

“My thoughts are with Dafydd right now. I wonder how he’s feeling. I genuinely hope he’s at peace. If he is, it gives me hope that I could feel the same tranquillity. Dafydd, if I can keep pace with you, even from a distance, it would already be a significant achievement for me! Fair winds!”
Edouard De Keyser, Belgium

“I’d like to wish Dafydd the best of luck on his incredible voyage. Unless you’ve tried it would be almost impossible to imagine what he and all the skippers have overcome to get to the start.
I wish him a swift and safe race.”
Lloyd Davey, UK

“Fair winds Dafydd. Have a safe journey. “
Ari Känsäkoski, Finland

Many may be wondering why Ivan Dimov is not mentioned as a starter together with Dafydd. The starting sequence should have seen Ivan, the Bulgarian skipper who resides in Italy, depart together with “Bendigedig” this Saturday August 26th, on his long keel Endurance 37 “Blue Ibis”. However, after a series of setbacks and delays in his preparations, he requested dispensation from the organisers to be permitted to arrive late in A Coruña. For safety reasons, all boats are given a deadline by which they have to complete their safety inspections and leave the start port or be disqualified, this to ensure all boats can reasonably expect to round the infamous Cape Horn before the end of the Austral summer.

Dafydd Hughes is about to set sail. If you wish to support him you can send him a personal message directly to his boat from his profile page on the Global Solo Challenge website.

The Global Solo Challenge is about to begin!