Meet the Crew - Marta Michalska

Polish crew member Marta, now living in London, is due to begin the race of her life when Leg 4 starts from Albany, Western Australia on Tuesday 1 December.

Find out more about why Marta is taking on the challenge, what she sees as the biggest challenge on board, is what she is most excited about experiencing.

Name: Marta Michalska
Age: 35
Nationality: Polish
Occupation: Commodities Broker
Team: Unicef
Signed up for: Leg 4

What led you to sign up for the Clipper Race?
I live in St Katharine Docks in London and saw the last race leave and come back and that was that, I wanted to be a part of it. Every year I am looking for a new challenge, and this is the one that takes me out of my comfort zone. Not only is it so much harder than a day, day’s or weeks’ event, but also I was only a champagne sailor before and want to learn more.

What do your friends and family think about you taking part?
They are used to me coming up with ‘new’ and crazier ideas. Whether its cycling, climbing mountains, they know I love to push myself, but will stay safe and know when to say no. They are excited for me, it’s a true once in a lifetime experience.

How was your race training?
My race training was amazing, all the Skippers I had the pleasure of sailing with were reassuring and calm under pressure which filled me with confidence and showed just how great the Clipper Race training is. I wouldn’t say it has taken me from zero to hero, but I am definitely more confident, excited, and a little apprehensive, I’m sure the race will be different.

What do you think will be the most challenging of Leg 4?
What will be the most challenging, is actually what I’m most excited about. The ever changing conditions, constant adrenaline rush and trying to cook at an angle!

What are you most looking forward to on Leg 4?
I am looking forward to everything, the Southern Ocean, racing further south than any other leg of the race, and the Roaring Forties. I want to feel that adrenaline rush when at the bow, and of course my Sydney fundraising cycle of the length of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race with my team, Unicef, followed by jumping on the boat and actually sailing it. The start of the race will simply be an unforgettable experience, a true one-off.

If you want to join Marta on the world’s oceans, we are now recruiting for the 2017-18 edition of the race. To discover more, click here.