Israeli Sailor Makes History in Golden Globe Race

Daniel Pinsky, a 35-year-old sailor from Ariel, has become the first Israeli to compete in the prestigious Golden Globe Race. He embarked on the challenging solo circumnavigation on Sunday at 15:30 Israel time from Les Sables-d'Olonne, France.

Pinsky's voyage is expected to last approximately 250 days, during which he will sail around the world alone, without stops, crew, or modern navigation aids like GPS. Competitors are restricted to using only paper charts and compasses, harkening back to an earlier era of sailing. Communication with the outside world is also limited, primarily through satellite devices for short text messages.

The Golden Globe Race, first held in 1968, is known for its extreme difficulty. Of the 43 sailors who participated in its three previous editions since its revival in 2018, only nine have successfully completed the course. For the current edition, 16 sailors from 12 countries are starting the race, with Pinsky sailing his 1980 Baba 35 boat, named 'Exodus,' which he has extensively refitted.

Pinsky's boat proudly flies a large Israeli flag on its sail, symbolizing his mission to represent Israel and embody perseverance. His sailing journey began at age 14, leading him to study at the "Canoeim Akko" naval boarding school, followed by service in the Israeli Navy. He has accumulated over 20,000 nautical miles across various seas and oceans, previously completing a full circumnavigation of the Atlantic Ocean between 2021 and 2024.

Reflecting on the impending journey, Pinsky expressed a mix of intense emotions, stating, "I wish I had words to describe the feeling inside. But there aren't. Mostly seclusion, tension, the need to be quiet." He acknowledged the significant support from Israelis, both present at the start and watching from afar, feeling like part of a large, supportive family. He anticipates a profound personal transformation during the approximately eight months he will be at sea, noting, "Next time you see me, it will be in about 8 months. You will see what has changed in me and I will see what has changed in the world I left behind."

Progress can be tracked via the official YB Races app and the Golden Globe Race's official channels, with Pinsky providing updates as conditions permit.