Right now the wind and tide are conspiring to slow us down, but we’ll get to London - where this race began three years ago and what a journey it has been. I’m sure that everyone involved has been changed by it and will remember it, and have something truly significant to look back on in the years ahead.

Previous Imagine Your Korea skippers Mike and Dan, and especially our first AQP Sam Cooper, all played their part in getting the boat and its many crew to Subic Bay before the Covid-19 pause. Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and William Ward then showed commitment and leadership by their determination to restart, and with an incredible effort (often out of sight) from the entire company, together we made it happen.

So to phase two – with new AQP Johnny Chambers, the returning round the world crew and those joining or re-joining Imagine Your Korea for their legs can all be proud of what they have achieved. Through highs and lows, calms and storms, the drama of racing, and the fleet camaraderie and hard work of stopovers, the team has stuck together and got each other through. Everyone arrived with their own goals, and everyone will leave with their own special memories, but I believe that the challenge, development and adventure that ocean sailing brings are eventually more important than Race Points.

On a personal note, I have finally ‘closed the loop’ by sailing (in different sections, at various times) all the way around the mainland British Isles – there was a little gap from the Sound of Harris to the Moray Firth where I had never been, so there is another personal goal achieved. There is always something new to look forward to in sailing … and in life. What will you do next?

Cheers, Rob

AQP blog:

As we approach the final miles down the east coast of England, we are looking forward to celebrating in the big smoke that is London town. Firstly I would like to thank all of our round the worlders, many congratulations on achieving something truly extraordinary, circumnavigating our planet. Next to the leggers, who brought zest to each leg and kept us all going through some tough ocean sailing and amusement through the light airs. Big shout out to my friends and family, very much looking forward to seeing you all soon. The Race Office and maintenance teams have been an incredible support and have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this race happen. Finally to Rob, the ginger mountain who has taken me under his wing. I have learnt an enormous amount sailing with this fantastic man and I’ll never forget the experience. I hope to be sailing again soon with this legend!