The Clipper Round the World Race – A quick guide to sailing Asia

Image source: asia-pacificboating.com
The Clipper Round the World Race will be on its 11th year in 2019. It’s a race where participants boarding 70-foot racing yachts circumnavigate the world in eight grueling stages and 13 to 16 individual races, each progressively testing their skills and endurance. The race was established by the first man to circumnavigate the world alone on a boat, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston.


What’s unique about the Clipper Round the World Race is that it’s not dominated by professionals. Everyday people join every year after completing rigorous training courses and availing of necessary protective gear to start the race. At the end of the day, there’s a mix of people from different backgrounds working together to be the fastest boat on the water.

One of the legs of the event brings participants to Asia. The fifth leg of the race begins at the southeast tip of Australia and goes north up to the Olympic sailing city of Qingdao, China. Along the way, participants will pass Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and then cross the South China Sea.

Image source: clipperroundtheworld.com
This leg marks the second crossing of the equator. Being notorious for powerful storms, Southeast Asia can prove to be one of the biggest challenges in the entire race. Being halfway through the race, competitors are sure to be battling fatigue and sailing conditions remain as elusive as ever. Luckily, this leg passes through the Hawaii of China, Hainan Island.

With more than 20 years of experience working in the federal government and military, James Feldkamp specializes in international security and foreign policy initiatives. In the past, Mr. Feldkamp had successfully spearheaded international outreach and coordination initiative to improve maritime domain awareness and maritime security. He is also a sailing enthusiast, intending to join next year’s edition of the Clipper Round the World Race. For similar reads, visit this page.

Tags: Clipper Round the World Race, South East Asia, South China Sea, Hainan, yacht race

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