GSC – 7/9/2023 – By Hal – David Linger, a 60-year-old American and lifelong sailing enthusiast, is an entrant in the Global Solo Challenge (GSC). He was raised by the sea in Seattle, where he gained extensive knowledge of boatbuilding, repairs, rigging, and detailing. With his passion for sailing and inspiration from notable sailors such as Sir Frances Chichester, Eric Tabarly, Alain Colas, and Claire Francis, Linger always dreamt of completing a solo circumnavigation.
Upon retirement, Linger found that the GSC fell at an ideal time in his life. He purchased a 2006 Class 40 yacht, previously named Bolland Mills, designed by Owen Clarke Designs, and renamed it Koloa Maoli in honor of his parents’ yacht. The yacht, which had completed the 2006 Route de Rhum and ranked 3rd in its class, was built to comply with World Sailing’s Offshore Special Regulations Category 0, thus needing little renovation to meet the GSC standards.
Currently, refits are being carried out at the Maine Yacht Center, and Linger is preparing for sea trials and his qualifying 2,000-mile solo sail. He plans to start from A Coruña in late October and expects to be at sea for about 150 days. His strategy involves preserving the yacht’s condition for the final Atlantic stretch where these challenges and races are often decided.
Linger is not a professional sailor but found the GSC an appealing personal challenge. He appreciates the community spirit among the entrants and is excited to meet his fellow competitors in Spain. Aware of the risks, particularly in the Southern Ocean, Linger’s comprehensive boat knowledge and repair skills equip him well to handle potential issues during the challenge.
MORE: Is sailor David Linger the ideal candidate for the Global Solo Challenge?
Cover photo: Courtesy of David Linger
