Swiss sailor Siegfried Studer is the 13th entry in the Global Solo Challenge
by Global Solo Challenge 8 Mar 2021 20:57 AEDT
Siegfried Studer © Global Solo Challenge
Siegfried Studer from Claro in Switzerland started sailing in his mid thirties and right from the beginning it has become an all encompassing passion for him.
He has now decided to set himself the challenge to be ready for the start of the Global Solo Challenge in 2023 with early plans of a refit of his North Wind 50 and a training programme to see him climbing fast up the learning curve.
Where does your passion for sailing come from?
I was 36 years old when a friend invited me for four days on his sailing boat; 4 days were enough for sailing become a passion! I dreamed of sailing!!!
What are the lessons you learnt from sailing?
It taught me a great respect for nature and its strengths, humility, prudence! It taught me to forget time as a clock, to accept that I don't necessarily have to get my intended destination if, due to the weather, it's not possible!!
What brought you to like single-handed sailing?
It's a new world in itself that attracts me a lot: me and the nature, me and my boat, and last but not least, me with myself! When I sail, a great happiness and serenity pervades me!
What prompted you to sign up for this event?
The realisation of my dream, that is to go around the world, prompted me to join GSC, a unique opportunity to, perhaps, make it come true, BUT I need to build much more confidence!!
How do you plan to prepare for this event?
The Boat is ashore in the shipyard for preparations for the circumnavigation. GSC sDifferent thing, like finishing refitting the boat (rudder, new radar, rigging, boat mast! Moreover I foresee a preparation with offshore instructors and sailing as many miles as possible!
What do you think will be the biggest challenge?
The most difficult moment is to leave, to have the courage to let go, knowing that you are alone for several weeks, with very challenging moments (marine weather, cold temperatures, etc.)
Tell us about your boat
Since I discovered sailing,I have dreamed of travelling around the world by boat! For this reason I chose my beautiful boat, not very fast, but solid, safe, marine and equipped with every comfort to live and enjoy every moment, both at anchor and in navigation!
About the boat:
- Boat Name: Varekai
- Model: North Wind 40DS
- Year built: 1998
- Group: TBA
- LOA: 50
- Displacement: 17000 kgs
- Upwind sail area: 120 m2
- Downwind sail area: 160 m2