My name is Harley Barrons. I’m 19 years old, and I’m working toward being 21 when I hopefully take on a global offshore sailing race in the 2027/28 edition.

My relationship with sailing started in 2021, when I was 15. That first experience at sea came through the Cirdan Sailing Trust, and it quickly became something far more meaningful than just learning how to sail. I went on to complete another voyage with them soon after, and those early experiences planted the idea that the sea wasn’t just somewhere I enjoyed being — it was where I felt most focused, grounded, and capable.

At the time, though, I hit a barrier. Because of age restrictions, safety regulations, and legislation around volunteer crew, I wasn’t able to continue going on voyages as regularly as I wanted. It was frustrating, but it didn’t take away from the direction I’d found. If anything, it reinforced it.

By the time I turned 18, I made a decision to get more involved properly. I joined the new youth forum that the Trust was starting, which opened the door to returning on board in a more active role. From there, I began supporting voyages as a volunteer deckhand and, when needed, stepping in to help as a bosun. Sometimes this was planned well in advance; other times it meant being ready at short notice to get to the boat to make sure there was the correct crew onboard and that everyone — staff and trainees alike — could get the most out of the experience.

That responsibility changed things for me. It wasn’t just about sailing anymore; it was about contributing to something bigger. Making sure operations ran safely, supporting others as they learned, and helping shape an environment where young people could push themselves and realise what they were capable of. It showed me that I didn’t just want to be part of the maritime world — I wanted to help grow it in the right way.

A big part of that motivation comes from my own experience. At 17, I was struggling with depression and anxiety and trying to work out where I actually belonged. Sailing gave me structure, accountability, and a sense of purpose when I needed it most. Because of that, I’m passionate about showing the younger generation — not just locally, but globally — what’s possible when you commit to something fully. That with the right mindset, support, and determination, paths open up that don’t always seem obvious at first.

That belief is what’s driving me now.

The challenge I’m preparing for is demanding in every sense — mentally, physically, and financially. The race itself is expensive, and the costs extend beyond entry alone. Training, preparation, and essential safety equipment that isn’t provided onboard all add up quickly. Because of that, I’m actively seeking businesses and partners who want to support not just an individual campaign, but a wider purpose.

All donations and sponsorship support raised around the world will be held until the journey is complete, then split equally and directed back into the continents we visit. The aim is to support one or two charities per continent, chosen based on what I’ve seen firsthand and where support can make the most meaningful impact. One hundred percent of those funds will go back into causes that matter.

The challenge ahead spans 11 months, covers over 40,000 nautical miles, visits six continents, and starts and ends in the UK on a 72-foot yacht. It will be the 15th running of this race — and while the scale is significant, what matters most to me is what it represents.

This site exists to document the full journey: where I started, what I’m building toward, and what happens when passion meets long-term commitment. Not just the wins, but the reality in between.

This is my story so far — and it’s still being written.

-Harley