Launching my Solo Sailing Campaign for La Solitaire du Figaro 2026
I’m excited to officially launch my solo offshore sailing campaign with the goal of competing in La Solitaire du Figaro in 2026 — one of the toughest and most respected solo races in the world.
As a sailor from New Zealand, the ocean has shaped who I am. After years of sailing and building my skills on and off the water, I am ready to take on a new challenge. Years of racing has given me the ability that is necessary for my new project, competing in match racing events against the best of the best in one design classes, Keelboat racing inshore and offshore around the world in any conditions and technical skills from being involved in professional sailing teams . I have followed my dreams of becoming a professional sailor. Now I am ready to take on the Figaro class. A one-design fleet known for high-performance, tactical, and fiercely competitive offshore racing. After moving to France in 2022 and diving into the world of offshore sailing, Im ready and prepared to take on this new challenge.
La Solitaire du Figaro is considered a rite of passage for solo sailors. It’s about speed, it’s about endurance, strategy, and resilience. Each stage of the race can last for several days, where every decision matters. The Figaro class is often described as a "school of excellence" for solo offshore racing — and for good reason. The racing pushes sailors to the edge of their physical, mental, and emotional limits. Racing in solitaire (solo) with only 15-20 minute naps, navigating weather systems, and routing through coastlines to avoid current. Making split-second decisions under pressure, and managing every aspect of the boat on your own. During the racing you face isolation, exhaustion, and unpredictability at sea. It is the ultimate challenge for any sailor looking to excel and grow in offshore sailing.
Racing in this class can also be one of the most rewarding experiences a sailor can have. There’s an unmatched sense of freedom and self-reliance that comes from solo sailing. You learn to trust yourself in a way that very few things in life demand. You become more than just a sailor. You become a strategist, mechanic, meteorologist, and endurance athlete. For me, this is more than just a race, it’s a personal mission to push my limits and represent myself and my country on one of sailing’s biggest stages.
This campaign isn’t just about racing. Its about protecting our ocean’s.
I’m proud to be partnered with Big Blue Ocean Clean Up, a global non-profit organisation working to protect our oceans from plastic pollution and marine degradation. As sailors, we see firsthand the impact humans are having on our seas. Through this partnership, I’ll be using my platform and sailing project to raise awareness for ocean conservation , support clean-up initiatives, and advocate for sustainability in our sport and beyond.
This new chapter of my life that I am embarking on involves an incredible amount of work just to get to the start line. Im diving into a world of communications, media and sailing, and my competitive nature and passion for adventure is driving me into this Journey.
I’m Looking for Sponsors to Join Me on This Journey
To make this campaign a reality and reach the start line of La Solitaire in 2026, I’m actively seeking sponsors and partners who share the passion for sailing, adventure, and protecting the ocean.
By coming on board, partners will be part of a unique and inspiring journey with opportunities for:
Brand visibility at international offshore events
Powerful environmental storytelling through Big Blue Ocean Clean Up
Media content and coverage across sailing and sustainability platforms
Speaking engagements and team-building opportunities tied to adventure and resilience
This Is an exciting time for the sport of sailing as now sailors are able to bring to the world our racing adventures through modern media platforms. Whether you’re a business with a global outlook or a company that cares deeply about the ocean, I’d love to connect with you and explore the many opportunities!
For sponsorship inquiries, media contact, or to follow the journey, visit https://www.southernxracing.com/
Follow Oakley on Instagram [@oakleypoakley_racing | #SailWithOakley