Kirsten Neuschäfer wins Golden Globe Race

When Kirsten Neuschäfer crossed the Golden Globe Race finish line she became the first woman to win the event, or any solo, non-stop, round the world yacht race for that matter. Kirsten is an inspiration to anyone hoping to break down barriers in the sporting world.

Spending 235 days at sea, Kirsten’s official time was 233 days, 18 hours, 43 minutes and 47 seconds (after her 35 hours of compensation awarded for Tapio’s rescue were discounted). Kirsten received a hero’s welcome when she returned to Les Sables D’Olonne where thousands of Sablais and fans from all around the world greeted her. There were emotional scenes when she hugged her mother Annett on the dock after many months away.

Kirsten joins record breaking sailor Wendy Tuck in the record books. Wendy became the first woman to win a round the world yacht race when she took first place in the Clipper 2017-18 Race as skipper of Sanya Serenity Coast.

The upcoming 2023-24 edition has two female Skippers and three female First Mates in the team of professional sailors who will lead Race Crew around the world - hoping to inspire more women and girls to take up the sport, either as a pastime or professionally.