All-Female Crew of The Famous Project CIC Determined to Triumph Despite Difficulties on their Jules Verne Trophy Attempt

“Adventure and passion on high seas”. These aren’t just words for the courageous all-women crew of The Famous Project CIC, undertaking the remarkable challenge of a nonstop, unaided circumnavigation of the world in the renowned Jules Verne Trophy challenge. Despite difficult circumstances, the women remain steadfast in their journey, refusing to abandon their dream of breaking a record and inscribing their names in the annals of nautical history. Aboard their battle-worn maxi trimaran, IDEC SPORT, the team encounters adversity, their mainsail blocked at the second reef, Cape town looming ahead. A stopover could mean the loss of their dream. Yet, the sturdy spirit of Alexia, Dee, Annemieke, Rebecca, Deborah, Molly, Tamara, and Stacey can hardly be subdued. Sisterhood, grit and an unwavering will keep them stubbornly pressing on. The problem lies with a stubborn hook, refusing to let the mainsail rise. Stuck and blocked, the hook, a clasp that relays the sail’s tension to the mast’s top, becomes a formidable adversary. With the spirit of their mission in mind, and the lyrics of Bruce Springsteen’s The River reinforcing their resolve: ‘Because a dream is a lie if it doesn’t come true’, they labour for hours, inside the boat’s wing mast and out, attempting to repair the stubborn hook. Each crew member, with patience and diligence, contributes to the task. Undeterred by uncertainties and the unknown, the women of The Famous Project CIC stand resolute, committed to seeing their dream come to fruition. As they press ahead on their momentous journey, their resilience becomes a beacon of inspiration, a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and the indomitable spirit of women explorers. Their story continues to inspire countless others, a vivid reminder of the strength of human character when it is steeled by ambition and fortified by an unwavering belief in one’s dreams.’