As we edge closer to the inaugural Global Solo Challenge, excitement fills the air as daring skippers from around the globe prepare for the adventure of a lifetime. Representing the heart of Europe, two seasoned Belgian sailors, Amaury de Jamblinne and Edouard de Keyser, are set to brave the high seas, embodying the spirit of endurance, passion, and respect for the environment.
At 63, de Jamblinne is proof that the flame of adventure never dulls with age. With decades of experience, he embarks on this epic journey armed with humility, a steadfast vessel, and the camaraderie of his fellow entrants. His story reminds us that it’s never too late to chase our dreams, no matter how vast they may seem.
On the other hand, de Keyser, a tech-preneur turned devoted sailor, marries his love for the sea with his commitment to the environment. His pledge to use zero fossil fuels during this journey is a bold statement in a world grappling with climate change, and his preparation is a testament to his commitment.
As they gear up for this grand voyage, it’s not just about the challenge, the adrenaline, or the finish line, it’s about fulfilling lifelong dreams, overcoming personal boundaries, and above all, respecting Mother Nature.
So, if you’re captivated by thrilling adventures, resilience, and tales of human spirit, these sailors’ stories promise a journey that’s worth exploring. Sit back, let the waves take you on a journey as we delve into the fascinating lives and preparations of these two extraordinary Belgian sailors.
Amaury de Jamblinne
Amaury de Jamblinne, a 63-year-old Belgian skipper, is set to fulfill his long-time dream of a solo round-the-world voyage via the three Great Capes through his participation in the first edition of the Global Solo Challenge (GSC). Amaury’s love for sailing blossomed at an early age, nurtured by his father and then deepened when he embarked on a two-year global sea journey as a crew member after his military service. This voyage altered his life and ignited a passion for the open sea, leading him to complete several transatlantic races and a two-year round-the-world trip with his family.
Despite the daunting prospect of the South Seas and the Roaring Fifties, Amaury embraces the challenge with humility and respect for the ocean’s power. He views the GSC as an opportunity to achieve his dream of solo circumnavigation while still being part of a fleet, a safety factor he appreciates in the event’s organization.
His boat for the challenge, Tagaora, is a 1990 aluminium open 50 with an impressive track record, having participated in and won its category in the Ostar in 1992. He chanced upon the boat in 2017 in the port of Le Havre, France, and, despite a near miss in purchasing it, he finally closed the deal in 2022. Now, with the assistance of his ‘boat captain’ Basile Géron, Amaury is refitting Tagaora for the GSC, planning to review the sails, rigging, and electronics.
Although Tagaora may not be the fastest in the fleet, Amaury believes it’s perfectly suited for the GSC. His main goal is to complete the adventure, which he estimates will take 150 days, prioritizing the preservation of the sailor and the boat. However, he doesn’t rule out pushing hard to overtake a competitor if the opportunity arises.
One of the highlights of Amaury’s journey so far is the camaraderie among the GSC entrants. The skippers regularly exchange information and tips in a WhatsApp group, fostering a collaborative environment. Amaury is also keen to contribute to a scientific project during his voyage if the opportunity arises. The journey’s emotional highs and sailing under the stars, he believes, will outweigh the inevitable periods of missing comfort and serenity, and his children, during the challenge. He’s also planning some comforts for his trip, like bringing along red wine and camembert and surprise packages from his children. Amaury will do his qualifying navigation in May or June, likely a return trip to the Azores.
Edouard de Keyser
Belgian sailor Edouard de Keyser is set to participate in the Global Solo Challenge, a solo sailing adventure around the world, starting in September from the port of A Coruña. This event represents the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for de Keyser, who has committed to completing the challenge without using any fossil fuels on his yacht, SolarWind.
The 56-year-old Brussels native has a rich history with sailing, which began in his childhood during holidays in Brittany. He eventually became a sailing instructor at a young age, took on a transatlantic regatta, the Mini Transat, and embarked on a Belgian expedition to Greenland. He briefly turned to the tech industry, where he was instrumental in the development of the Internet in Belgium, before selling his company in 2007 to return to sailing.
In the run-up to the Global Solo Challenge, de Keyser has been busy preparing his boat and raising funds for the event. He emphasizes the importance of respecting his zero fossil fuel pact and balancing technology and nature during his journey. SolarWind, his 34-foot boat built by Jacques Riguidel and designed by David Réard, impresses with its array of features optimized for solo sailing.
When asked about the challenge ahead, de Keyser stated that the biggest unknown is not the boat or the conditions but how he will react to spending five months alone at sea. Despite this, he remains optimistic and committed to his goals of returning safely, winning the race, and upholding his environmental commitments.
Click here to learn more about the Global Solo Challenge
Text: GSC
Image: 34′ SolarWind ©Edouard de Keyser