Dan Lenard sets extraordinary Laser/ILCA endurance record under the banner of the Vela Code Foundati
by Eugenio Lattanzio 1 Sep 22:17 NZST
12-18 August 2025
The Vela Code Foundation proudly highlights the remarkable solo, non-assisted sailing achievement of its founder, Dan Lenard, who between 12 and 18 August 2025 completed an unprecedented endurance crossing in a Laser/ILCA dinghy. This achievement was also carried out as Dan Lenard, a Member of the Yacht Club de Monaco, and he is proud to contribute to the Club with this record.
Over the course of 147 hours and 41 minutes, Lenard sailed a total of 321.5 nautical miles,
starting and finishing at D-Marin Marina Dalmacija in Croatia. This performance exceeds the
previous reference of 283.5 miles set in 2014, and was monitored in real time via the YB
Iridium Satellite Tracker – followed live by more than 190,000 enthusiasts in 38 countries – as
well as Lenard's personal Garmin GPS.
Departure and arrival were witnessed by marina staff, yachts, and professional observers, while
the feat has already attracted significant international media coverage across sailing and
yachting platforms.
Beyond the sporting achievement, this crossing was distinguished by its strict environmental
commitment: no single-use plastic was carried onboard. All provisions were stored in glass or
aluminium containers, in line with the mission of the Vela Code Foundation to inspire and
promote sustainable practices at sea.
"I am proud that this record not only demonstrates the endurance and spirit of sailing, but also
carries a clear message: yachting can and must lead by example in protecting the oceans. As a
Member of the Yacht Club de Monaco and through the Vela Code Foundation, my commitment
is to expand awareness and inspire others to embrace a more responsible relationship with the
sea." — Dan Lenard
The Foundation is committed to amplifying the message of responsibility, awareness, and
ocean preservation through such actions, demonstrating that sporting feats can also serve as
powerful vehicles for change.
The Vela Code Foundation warmly acknowledges the Yacht Club de Monaco's support in
sharing and promoting this achievement, a partnership that strengthens the visibility of
yachting's capacity to lead by example in sustainability.