What does it take to stand on the start line of one of the toughest solo sailing race in the world?

With just one month before the start of the Golden Globe Race, I caught up with Mara aboard Showgirl in Les Sables d’Olonne. Yet again there is only one woman in the race!

This conversation goes far beyond race preparation. We talk about the reality of getting to the start line after months of setbacks and problem-solving, from major rig repairs in Jersey to the last-minute loss of a solar panel sponsor and the incredible generosity of the sailing community that stepped in to help.

Mara shares the importance of her support team, why she chooses to embrace colour and femininity in a sport that often celebrates a different image, and why visibility matters if we want more women to believe that adventures like this are possible for them.

We also dive into the practical realities of racing alone around the world. We discuss provisioning, the food that keeps both body and morale going, celestial navigation, self-steering systems, barnacles, heavy weather tactics, and the mindset needed to face months alone at sea. Throughout it all, Mara speaks openly about the pressure of being the race’s only female competitor while remaining determined simply to sail her own race and finish it.

I hope you enjoy meeting Mara as much as I did.

Mara's Website

Golden Globe Race 2026

About SheHelms Sailing

I’m JoJo Pickering, a professional freelance skipper, RYA Yachtmaster Instructor and founder of SheHelms Sailing.

SheHelms is a free, women-only sailing community bringing women together to build skills, confidence and connections on the water. Through the podcast, monthly Zooms, Book Club, learning resources and our online community, we share practical knowledge, inspiring stories and honest conversations about sailing and life at sea.

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