Sailing-Goodchild Swaps Solo: A Record-Breaking Transatlantic Journey

The sailing world was abuzz with excitement as Britain's Sam Goodchild, fresh from his IMOCA Globe Series title win in 2025, embarked on a new challenge: a fully crewed offshore campaign aboard the MOD70 trimaran, Argo. This daring switch from solo ocean racing to a team effort resulted in a record-breaking performance at the RORC Transatlantic Race.

Goodchild's Transition to Team Racing

Goodchild, 36, joined forces with a six-man crew under skipper Chad Corning, including experienced sailors Pete Cumming, Charles Ogletree, Alister Richardson, and Brian Thompson. Goodchild's decision to join the team was driven by the boat's appeal and the opportunity to sail with a talented group of people.

Argo's Agility and Simplicity

Goodchild emphasized that Argo's agility and simplicity were key factors in its record-breaking performance. Compared to larger, faster Ultim multihulls, Argo, at 70ft, is more manageable and allows for quick maneuvers. This agility, combined with the trust among the crew, made for an exhilarating journey across the Atlantic.

The Importance of Trust and Balance

Goodchild underscored the importance of trust among crew members, as multihulls, while offering an adrenaline rush, also involve a certain level of risk. Finding the balance between risk and reward is part of the fun, he said.

The RORC Transatlantic Race: A Prestigious Contest

Organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club, the RORC Transatlantic Race has quickly become one of offshore sailing's most respected ocean contests since its modern launch in 2014. The race attracts a diverse fleet, from cutting-edge multihulls to grand-prix monohulls, powerful IRC racers, and Corinthian crews.

The North East Connection

For our North East readers, the RORC Transatlantic Race's route mirrors the journey of the legendary trade winds, which have historically connected the Indian subcontinent with the Western world. The race offers a glimpse into the rich maritime history shared by the regions along its path.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Sailing

Goodchild's record-breaking journey on Argo serves as a testament to the enduring allure of offshore sailing. As Indian athletes prepare for the Olympics 2024 in Paris, we can look forward to witnessing more thrilling performances from our sailors on the international stage.