The first Scotsman
John Mackay likes a challenge. His goal now is to become the first Scotsman to take part in the Vendée Globe. Since the race was set up in 1989, no Scot has ever attempted the race, in spite of the country’s maritime heritage. John wants to correct that and become a pioneer following in the wake of Sir Chay Blyth, the great Scottish sailor, who back in 1971 became the first man to sail around the world against the prevailing winds and currents from east to west.
John Mackay developed a passion for ocean racing in 1982 when he sailed the 600 miles from Scotland to France in some extreme conditions with very strong winds. This experience was to leave an indelible mark on the young Scot, who has since gained a lot of experience sailing off Scotland’s stormy West coast, but also around France and Norway. He has in fact, already sailed three times across the Atlantic two of which were double-handed.
Having clocked up more than 50,000 miles, John Mackay feels he is now ready for the ultimate challenge: setting off around the world in the non-stop solo race, the legendary Vendée Globe. Enthusiastic, determined and ready to give it a go, he will be applying himself fully to achieve this goal. Deeply attached to his roots, he intends to fly the Scottish flag in this most demanding of solo ocean races.
