What is Global Ocean Challenge?

The Global Ocean Challenge is the first ever solo-double global ocean race. It was founded and is being organized by Brian Hancock and Josh Hall, both internationally acclaimed sailors and entrepreneurs. The race is open to 40 and 50 foot sailboats sailed solo or with two people on board. So far 87 competitors from 12 different countries have registered their intent to enter.

WHEN

The Global Ocean Challenge will start from Lisbon, Portugal in September 2007 and circumnavigate the world via South Africa, New Zealand, South America, and the US before finishing in Lisbon in June 2008.

WHY

The Global Ocean Challenge addresses a niche of around-the world racing that's missing and is firmly aimed at a pent-up demand for an achievable event that's within the technical and financial reach of hundreds of sailors. The solo-double concept has generated global media interest and will provide a enormous cache of human interest stories. Billy Black has taken some beautiful pictures of similar events.

EDUCATION

There is a long tradition of an education program running parallel with this kind of event. The nine month duration of the race coincides nicely with a school year. Satellites allow instant tracking of the yachts and new technology means that " The Global Ocean Challenge will straddle between an international sporting event and a mainstream realty event."
Elaine Bunting - Editor Yachting World Magazine. GLOBAL OCEAN SAILING VENTURES

"I can remember following the first Around Alone race through an education program run through the Rhode Island public schools. It captivated me and changed my life."
Dave Reed - Managing Editor Sailing World Magazine

For more information please contact: Brian Hancock - Communications Director - Global Ocean Sailing Ventures

Technology allows school children to communicate directly with the sailors. In addition to the human dynamic themes of integrity, courage, goal setting and the power of determination, the education curriculum will emphasize more basic themes such as an appreciation for nature, weather, the human condition and global cultures.

A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT WITH SCHOLASTIC

Scholastic is the world's largest producer of education content. Their reach in the US alone is more than 40 million schoolchildren - and their families. The Global Ocean Challenge will provide rich content for a dynamic education curriculum. Competitors will be required to participate actively in the program.

Starting with a branded teachers guide that includes a wall map of the race course, through nine months of web-based education content, the GOSV Education Initiative is a unique and interesting way to engage schoolchildren. For sponsors, both of the event and of individual competitors, it's an unobtrusive way to get their brand in front of tens of millions of households around the world. It's also a way for sponsors to connect directly with families and to leave a lasting impression on them. With Scholastic's trusted name the GOSV Education Initiative will inspire generations of school children to dream big and to realize those dreams.