Simon Curwen Talk Review
Published 00:00 on 31 Dec 2024
Catherine Wilson writes: On Thursday 16 January 2025, Simon Curwen gave a captivating talk to a packed Clubhouse. ESC member Simon always aspired to undertake his own solo circumnavigation, having been inspired by Sir Francis Chichester and Robin Knox Johnson. The recreation of the Golden Globe Race on its 50th anniversary presented the opportunity for him to realise that dream.
Simon took us through the preparation of the race and securing his main sponsor, Howdens, at the last minute, whilst attending a wedding! David Sturdee from Howdens joined Simon for the talk. His boat Clara, a Biscay 36, originally a sloop rigger but now a cutter, was built in 1976 at Emsworth Yacht Harbour. The 16 boats starting the race in September 2022, from Les Sables d'Olonne, took on the challenge without using modern technology such as GPS, satellites, or smart phones, primarily relying on wind and solar energy, as well the force of the sea to power their boats. Along with pictures, videos, and questions from David and the audience, Simon talked us through the race.
Disaster struck for Simon when he was leading the fleet about 1000 miles off Cape Horn when Clara was knocked down and the Hydrovane head sheared off. Having no spare windvane Simon had to put into port at Puerto Montt in Chile. He rejoined the race and was first to cross the finish line back in Les Sables d'Olonne, having spent 234 days at sea. This was a huge achievement. However, he was not eligible to win the event, which is a non-stop race, as he'd had to stop in Chile for repairs. This moved Simon to be first in 'Chichester' class - a tribute to Sir Francis Chichester who stopped in Australia for repairs during his circumnavigation in 1967, which took 312 days.
Many thanks to Simon for an excellent talk and for donating his speaker fee to the Blake Fund for Young Sailors.