History-making sailor Kirsten Neuschäfer has been awarded the prestigious Duchess of Kent Trophy by the Cruising Association in recognition of her extraordinary victory in the 2022 Golden Globe Race and heroic rescue of fellow sailor Tapio Lehtinen.
The Duchess of Kent Trophy is awarded to ‘any sailor, not necessarily a member, who has achieved something exceptional in or around small boats.’ Kirsten’s achievements embody this spirit, making her an exceptional addition to the distinguished list of past recipients, including Jimmy Cornell, Pip Hare and Jeanne Socrates.
Kirsten’s victory on Minnehaha, her Cape George 36, in the Golden Globe Race stands as an extraordinary accomplishment in ocean racing history. She completed the gruelling solo, non-stop and unassisted round-the-world race in an official time of 233 days, 20 hours, 43 minutes, and 47 seconds. Her triumph was not only a win for the record books but also for gender and geographic representation, as Kirsten became the first woman and the first South African sailor to win a solo round-the-world race.
In addition to her win, Kirsten’s race was marked by a courageous rescue. Deep in the Indian Ocean, she altered course to save Finnish competitor Tapio Lehtinen after his yacht sank. Kirsten took Tapio aboard Minnehaha until he could safely transfer to a passing cargo ship, after which she resumed her race. Out of seventeen starters, Kirsten was first among only five finishers of the Golden Globe Race.
“Kirsten’s courage, skill and determination exemplify the very best of the sailing community," noted Robin Baron, President of the Cruising Association. “The CA is immensely proud to celebrate her extraordinary accomplishments. Kirsten has been a trailblazer and inspired countless sailors worldwide.”
The Golden Globe Race is known for its extreme difficulty, permitting only 1968-era boats and technology as per the inaugural race.
Trophy Presentation
Kirsten was unable to attend the presentation in person due to her current voyage to Cape Town, positioned some 80 nm south of Tristan da Cunha at the time.
Mark Daniels, her sponsor, accepted The Duchess of Kent Trophy on Kirsten’s behalf from Sir Robin Knox-Johnston at the CA’s Flag Officers’ Lunch on 11 January 2025 at CA House, London. In winning the 1968/1969 Golden Globe Race, Sir Robin became the first person to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world.
After sharing words from Kirsten expressing her appreciation for the accolade, Mark reflected on Kirsten's achievements, saying, “My association with Kirsten has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, filled with many emotions. She dared to dream, and that dream became a reality when she won the 2022 Golden Globe. When we agreed to sponsor her, she confidently told me, ‘Mark, I’m in the race to win it.’ She then brought together a remarkable team whose support gave her the confidence to succeed. For 233 days, we lived vicariously through her journey. Kirsten’s tenacity, compassion and grit have earned her widespread recognition, yet she remains grounded - not by land, but by the sea she loves and protects. For Scipio SA, we are proud to have supported such an incredible sailor. Watch this space!”
