Golden Globe Race
solo circumnavigating the globe with the use of sextant and the stars
1/29/2025
In the realm of ocean sailing, the Golden Globe Race (GGR) holds a unique place. It is not just a race; it is a test of human resilience, skill, and the unyielding spirit of exploration. First held in 1968, the GGR is the ultimate solo, non-stop, around-the-world yacht race. Sailors navigate the globe using only traditional methods—no GPS, no satellite communications—relying instead on celestial navigation, paper charts, and the sheer will to survive.
For Colm Walker, a professional sailor hailing from San Diego, the GGR represents much more than a race. It is a story of adventure, personal growth, and perseverance.
History of the Golden Globe Race
The Golden Globe Race began as a daring challenge in 1968, inspired by the spirit of adventure and the dawn of the solo circumnavigation era. Nine sailors embarked on the journey, but only one, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, completed the race. Over 312 days at sea, Knox-Johnston became the first person to sail solo, non-stop, around the world, enduring isolation, storms, and equipment failures.
The stories of the other competitors are equally legendary. Bernard Moitessier, in a philosophical twist, chose to abandon the race and continue sailing to Tahiti, eschewing competition for personal fulfillment. Others faced heartbreak and tragedy, underscoring the immense physical and mental toll of the race.
After a 50-year hiatus, the GGR was revived in 2018, honoring the original race’s rules and spirit. This modern iteration strips away the conveniences of technology, challenging sailors to connect with the raw, unforgiving elements of the ocean. The 2026 edition promises to be just as grueling and inspiring, attracting sailors from around the world who seek to push their limits and make history. Beginning and ending at Les Sables-d’Olonne, France, the race course is an east-about circumnavigation of the globe with a first place only winner.
San Diego’s Entrant: Colm Walker
Representing San Diego in the 2026 Golden Globe Race, Colm Walker brings a rich tapestry of experience and purpose to this historic event. A professional sailor, Army veteran, and advocate for veteran causes, Colm embodies the values of resilience, exploration, and tradition that define the GGR. Colm’s journey is deeply rooted in his personal motto, inspired by his time at Norwich University: “I will try.” This ethos has carried him through military school, Afghanistan, and countless challenges in life. Now, it fuels his ambition to complete one of the most demanding races in the world.
“I’ve always been drawn to the individual challenge and the history of the Golden Globe Race,” Colm shares. “It’s an opportunity to honor the legacy of those who came before, while testing my own limits in the most profound way.”
Chosen Vessel: Mo Chuisle
For the Golden Globe Race, Colm will sail aboard Mo Chuisle (Irish for “My Pulse”), a Tayana 37. This classic bluewater cruiser is more than just a vessel; it is an extension of Colm himself. “I see the race as a partnership between the skipper and the boat,” Colm explains. “Mo Chuisle represents my heartbeat, my pulse. She is my co-adventurer in the race. We need to be in sync and work as one.” Preparing Mo Chuisle for the GGR has been both rewarding and challenging. With life’s demands competing for attention, Colm has faced the twin hurdles of fundraising and methodically inspecting every system on the boat to ensure it can endure the circumnavigation.
The Spirit of Traditional Navigation
The GGR requires competitors to embrace traditional sailing methods, evoking the romanticism of early explorers. For Colm, this is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the race.
“Classic sailing without modern technology tunes you back into nature,” Colm says. “It’s about feeling that perfect balance where the wind, currents, waves, and trimmed sails all meet. It’s a deeply meditative and humbling experience.” This return to the fundamentals of seamanship resonates with Colm’s belief in discipline, resilience, and the enduring connection between humans and the natural world.
Representing San Diego
As a sailor hailing from San Diego, Colm carries the legacy of the city’s rich maritime history into the race. From the triumphs of Dennis Conner and Stars & Stripes in the America’s Cup to the bustling spirit of its waterfront, San Diego has long been a beacon of sailing excellence.
“San Diego is rich with sailing stories,” Colm says. “The city’s connection to the sea, its history, and its community inspire me to represent it on the world stage.”
A Mission Beyond the Race
Colm’s journey is not only a personal challenge but also a testament to his commitment to veteran advocacy. Through his participation in the GGR, he hopes to inspire others to embrace growth and new challenges, proving that it is never too late to write a new chapter or even an entirely new story. “This race is a demonstration of resilience,” Colm explains. “It’s about showing that we, as veterans and as individuals, have the capacity to take on extraordinary challenges and create meaningful narratives for our lives.”
A Story to Follow
Colm’s adventure is one that promises to captivate and inspire. As preparations for the GGR intensify, readers are invited to follow his journey—from the painstaking work of outfitting Mo Chuisle to the raw, unfiltered experiences of racing across the world’s most unforgiving oceans. “I want readers to be interested in the story,” Colm says. “And I hope they’ll follow along through the magazine and online as the journey unfolds.”
To stay connected with Colm’s progress, updates, and reflections, visit his website at www.colmwalkerggr.com.
A Call to Adventure
The 2026 Golden Globe Race is more than just a competition. It is a celebration of human courage, ingenuity, and the indomitable spirit of exploration. For Colm Walker, it is the ultimate challenge—a convergence of his love for sailing, his dedication to veteran causes, and his unshakable belief in the power of perseverance.
San Diego, the world is watching.