The history of the Global Challenge

Inspired by his 'impossible voyage' in 1971 when he became the first solo yachtsman to sail non-stop 'the wrong way' around the World, Sir Chay Blyth launched the Global challenge with the aim of opening up round the World' yacht racing to anyone brave enough to seize the opportunity.

Unprecedented success
In the face of much scepticism, the first race, sponsored by British Steel, departed from Southampton in 1992 to a huge send off. After proving itself to be an unprecedented success, it has since been followed in 1996, 2000 and 2004 with three more hugely successful races, followed by thousands of people around the world. Global Challenge is now one of the most famous races in the world, firmly embedded in the yachting calendar as more and more people seek the adventure of a lifetime.

Wide spread interest
With the characteristics required of the crew volunteers mirroring those commonly recognised as being vital to a flourishing business, the Global Challenge has attracted wide spread interest and support from amongst the business community. To date over 650 ordinary men and women have taken part in the Global Challenge races and more than 500 companies have supported the races through the associated sponsorship and business programmes.

Source: challengebusiness.com