The World's Toughest Race? Clipper Round the World Yacht Race Update after Stage 6
by Mark Jardine 20 Feb 09:30 UTC
Conditions faced on Stage 3: The Musto South Atlantic Challenge © Clipper Race
The Clipper Round the World Race is what many regard as true ocean racing. Exposed to the elements on deck in traditionally shaped displacement yachts.
Ten identical 70 foot yachts are taking part with 20 professionals - two on each yacht - while the rest of the crew are amateurs who have chosen to take part, sometimes to complete a single leg, while others are completing the full circumnavigation.
It's a true test of endurance; 40,000 nautical miles enduring anything and everything Mother Nature can throw at you.
Founded by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first solo non-stop circumnavigator, the Clipper Race began in 1996. Since then, over 6,000 crew from 60+ nations have participated in this global challenge.
Becoming an ocean racer demands rigorous training. Every crew member, regardless of experience, completes four levels of Clipper Race training to tackle the world's most challenging conditions.
We take a look at the race so far after Stage 6, hear from Oli Irvine, skipper of GOSH (Great Ormond Street Hospital), the overall leader of the race, and also Dylan Kotze, skipper of Warrant who won Stage 6 into Subic Bay, The Philippines.
We then talk to Max Rivers, Deputy Race Director, about the race so far, the logistical challenges, and the excitement building for the future of the Clipper Race with the new RX 72-foot fleet of yachts being build for the next edition.
You can track the fleet via clipperroundtheworld.geovoile.com/2025/tracker