One sailor, one boat, one ocean

The Original Single Handed Trans-Atlantic Race (OSTAR) is the world’s oldest solo ocean challenge, dating back to 1960. Founded by ‘cockleshell hero’ Blondie Hasler and first won by the circumnavigator Sir Francis Chichester, the race has upheld its Corinthian roots, providing aspiring professional and amateur sailors with the ultimate challenge. Val Howells remains the sole survivor of that first race.

Some of the world’s greatest sailors have taken part including; Eric Tabarly, Pete Goss, Loick Peyron, Francis Joyon, Mike Golding, Michel Desjoyeaux and Ellen MacArthur. The Atlantic is the only judge and allows no room for mistakes, emphasising that the race truly is inspired by legends and sailed by heroes.

The Royal Western Yacht Club is delighted to announce that the 2009 edition of the Original Singlehanded Transatlantic Race from Plymouth to Newport, Rhode Island will start on the 25^th May 2009.

Keeping us informed at every stage, all boats will be equipped with trackers allowing their positions to be displayed and regularly updated on this site.

For more information and blogs from competitors visit www.blogstar.org.uk.

Artist and illustrator Richard Allman has teamed up with OSTAR 2009 and will be the project artist. Richard's new website has just gone live and can be found at www.richardallman.co.uk.

Keep visiting the site for news and updates.