On Wednesday 6 February, professional ocean yachtsman, Conrad Humphreys will give an illustrated talk about his round the world sailing experiences at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall.

The first of Conrad’s epic voyages took place in The Whitbread Round the World Race (now Volvo Ocean Race) in 1993-94, where at just 19 years of age he sailed as a crew member on the Russion 60 footer, Odessa. In 2000 he was selected as race skipper in the BT Global Challenge when, aged just 26 years old, he led his team to finish in first place and became the youngest skipper ever to win this prestigious round-the-world race.

More recently, on the 20 February 2005, Conrad Humphreys became only the 5th British sailor ever to complete the legendary Vendée Globe, in what has been acknowledged as one of the most remarkable comebacks in the history of the race.

After 25 days at sea, he was lying in 7th place and just about to enter the Southern Ocean when he hit a submerged object at speed. His yacht HELLOMOTO withstood the impact, but a rudder did not.
Humphreys arrived in Cape Town and, anchoring off a small bay near Simon’s Town, set about changing the broken rudder. Diving repeatedly under the hull in the full glare of the world’s media, he managed to replace the rudder and rejoin the race. Astoundingly he pulled back 9 places to finish 7th.

Last year, Conrad launched the BLUE Climate and Oceans Project, with the core objective to use the popularity of sports that showcase the natural environment, to mobilise people into being active in reducing their effect on global climate change. Conrad’s thought-provoking and inspirational talk will also demonstrate the intimate connection between sport and the natural environment and how sport can be a catalyst for change.

Tickets are available at £7 for lecture only and £15 to include two-course buffet. To book your seats please call 01326 214546.