AMN

Indian Naval officer Commander Abhilash Tomy will sail around the world, solo and non-stop, as part of the prestigious Golden Globe Race that commenced from Les Sables d’Olonne harbour in France yesterday.

The Navy said in an official statement that the uniqueness of the race is that boat designs and technology newer than 1968 are not permitted. Hence, the use of Global Positioning System, satellite communication, navigational aids, etc are forbidden.

Tomy, one of India’s prominent sailors and a recipient of the Kirti Chakra, is the only participant from Asia.

The Golden Globe Race is being conducted by Sir Robin Knox Johnston of the UK to commemorate 50 years of the world’s first solo non-stop circumnavigation undertaken by him in 1968 on board the Indian built boat, Suhaili.