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A UAE-registered sailing boat has finished second in the 2022 Golden Globe Regatta (GGR), one of the most challenging sailing competitions in the world. Helmed by ex-Indian Navy officer Cmdr. (Retired) Abhilash Tomy, the ship that circled the world non-stop in 236 days.
“I’m thrilled and honored to be able to pull off such a feat,” Tommy said afterward.
“This life-changing experience was extremely challenging, but the rewards were priceless. I hope my journey inspires others to follow their dreams with passion and determination.”
The boat, sponsored by Abu Dhabi-based geospatial artificial intelligence solutions provider Bayanat, is a Rustler 36 with race number ’71’ – a nod to the nation’s founding in 1971.
The race kicked off in September in France’s picturesque port of Les Sables-d’Olonne, with 30 sailors initially signed up, but only 16 made it to the start line. As a testament to the grueling nature of the race, only two boats were able to complete the demanding course while contenders remained in the race.
the second time
This isn’t Abhilash’s first attempt at the game. In 2018, the decorated officer and professional maritime scout pilot finished third after 82 days when his boat was damaged in a storm. He suffered life-threatening injuries from a fractured spine and required months of rehabilitation.
Abhilash’s perilous 30,000 nautical mile circumnavigation of the world is an epic tale of resilience and courage. He fought his way through violent storms, relentless isolation and months of solitude while dealing with severe damage to his ship, pushing his seamanship to the limit.
Earlier, during the match, Abhilash, speaking via voice recording, admitted he missed his family terribly, as per Ballon d’Or competition protocol. “It’s hard not to think about how [my friends and family] are doing, but they’re also why I’m going on this journey,” he said.
one of a kind competition
Starting from Les Sables-d’Olonne in France, competitors sail solo around the world, passing the Big Horns and returning to their starting point. The competition has unique requirements stipulating that entrants can only use technology that was available when the original competition took place in 1968.
In the original competition, nine people set out to circumnavigate the world, and only one, named Robin Knox-Johnston, managed to complete it.
In Abhilash’s class, Bayanat has been carrying out important scientific work to advance marine research and environmental protection. Bayanat CEO Hasan Al Hosani said the company is honored to be a part of Abhilash’s journey. “We couldn’t be more proud of Abhilash’s achievement in the Ballon d’Or race,” he said.
“Abhilash has brought great joy to the Emirati and Indian communities. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations.”
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