Juan Merediz returns to the Global Solo Challenge 2027-2028
by Global Solo Challenge 10 Apr 02:08 NZST
Juan Merediz – Waypoint – Class40 Pogo 40S (Finot-Conq) © Global Solo Challenge
Spanish sailor Juan Merediz has officially entered the 2027-2028 Global Solo Challenge (GSC), marking his return to the event after participating in the inaugural 2023-2024 edition.
Merediz, born in 1969, is an experienced sailor with over 150,000 nautical miles to his name. His sailing résumé includes notable races such as the Mini Transat, La Solitaire du Figaro, and the Barcelona World Race.?
In the previous GSC, Merediz sailed aboard his Class40 Waypoint, a Pogo 40S designed by Finot-Conq. Unfortunately, he had to retire from the race due to autopilot issues, lack of appropriate funding and time undermined his campaign. Determined to complete the journey, Merediz is preparing Waypoint for another attempt, aiming to build upon the lessons learned from his prior experience.
Merediz's commitment to the GSC highlights his passion for solo sailing and his dedication to achieving a successful circumnavigation. His return adds depth to the growing roster of sailors preparing for the 2027-2028 challenge.
About the skipper:
- Name: Juan Merediz
- Nationality: Spain
- Resides in: Valencia, Spain
- Born in: 1969
- Miles sailed: 150,000+
Where does your passion for sailing come from?
I was born with it. I used to look out the window of my house in Gijón, Asturias, and see that horizon line that attracted me so much. The Sea, the Sea... And I ended up sailing because it was the quickest way I could get to it.
What has sailing taught you?
My entire life is the sea and sailing. My way of behaving on land comes from what I've learned at sea. Discipline, action, resolution, resilience — above all, resilience.
What drew you to solo sailing?
I started very young by volunteering to move boats in the Bay of Biscay. I don't know what makes me feel so comfortable alone at sea. Honestly, I don't know.
What motivated you to register for this event?
Everything that drove me to be in the first edition, multiplied by the desire to finish the Global Solo Challenge. I have the chance to learn from mistakes and poor choices. I know the Path and it's very hard — but I know it.
How do you plan to prepare for this event?
Sail, sail, and sail. The years go by and physical preparation is essential, but in this case, I'll channel it into something I love — sailing. Regarding project management, the learning has been intense and the changes huge. They don't guarantee success, but they do shape the way to achieve it.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge?
Getting to the start well prepared. I guarantee I know that.
Tell us about your boat or the boat you'd like to have.
I'll keep the same boat from the first edition, Pogo 40 S number 69. Our relationship is deep. I know what she needs and she knows how to ask without demands. She, the boat, knows how hard it is — but also how hard I'm working to get her ready.
Do you want to link this personal challenge to a social message?
I discovered a philanthropic organization, Synergy Club International, with whom I worked after the flood that devastated southern Valencia. Together we were able to help, and their sincere approach to social good impacted me and gained my support. Also, the need to raise awareness around capturing carbon where it shouldn't be, hand in hand with The Carbon Capture Society.
Is there anything else you'd like to say?
The challenge is huge. I know that firsthand. Having Vigo as the start and finish is hugely motivating for me, because the affection I have for that land is well known there. The professionalism and warmth of the Global Solo Challenge organization is another reason. I want to live that again. Lastly, I can't deny the child I once was all the work and effort he's put in until today. Resilience!
Sailing Experience
Global Solo Challenge 2023/24, retired. Minitransat 1995, La Solitaire Le Figaro 1997, Barcelona World Race 2010/11.
About the boat:
- Boat name: Waypoint
- Sail number: ESP 69
- Boat design: Class40 - Pogo 40S (Finot-Conq)
- Year built: 2008
- Length overall (LOA): 40 feet
- Displacement: 4950 kg
- Upwind sail area: 115 m2
- Downwind sail area: 275 m2
First unit of the sport version of the Pogo 40. Winner of the Quebec St. Malo. Sailed by great skippers like Halvard Mabire, Antoine Carpentier, Andrea Fantini, David Consorte, and Damir Cargo, among others.