Abhilash Tomy
About
An inspiration to every swimming enthusiast, this Champion sailor Commander retired prematurely from the Indian Navy in 2021 to prepare and reattempt the grueling 30,000-mile Golden Globe Race in 2022.
He was part of the enormously challenging solo and non-stop circumnavigation race in 2018 that almost claimed his life when a storm damaged his vessel and led to a severe back injury that left him stranded and immobilized off the coast of Western Australia.
Before the 2013 Golden Globe Race, Abhilash Tomy had represented India in many international sailing events, including the Cape Town to Rio Race in 2011, the Spanish Copa del Rey race in 2014, and two Korea Cups.
In 2013, he became the first Indian and 79th to complete a solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the world under sail. At the end of the race, Tomy was received by the then Prime Minister, Pranab Mukharjee. He has also competed in the 2018 Golden Globe race.
He is an author of a bestselling pictorial book about his Voyage 151. He has also been a speaker on TedX Getaway and has also been featured on the Chivas Gentlemen's Code on Star Wars.
He is also a talented photographer and blogger and his journey across the world alone, with limited resources and having undergone unparalleled challenges, is an inspiration.
Awards and Accomplishments
Awards and Accomplishments
As a Navy officer, Abhilash has received many awards: ‘Kirti Chakra’ in 2013, ‘Nau Sena Medal’ in 2019, ‘YAI Offshore Sailor of the Year’ in 2009, 2013, 2018, and many others.
He has also received the ‘MacGregor Medal’ (Awarded to Indian Armed Forces personnel for noteworthy military reconnaissance) in 2013. Tomy has also trained an all-women crew of INSV Tarini, which was the first time circumnavigating the globe by an all-women team.
Abhilash has been the first Indian and 2nd Asian to sail non-stop, solo worldwide. He has received many medals and trophies in sailing. He has also been a former member of the Yachting Association of India. Abhilash has also received the ‘Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award’.
Why Abhilash Tomy ?
Abhilash is on a mission to get the youth excited about sailing and hopes to inspire them to become responsible and independent citizens. He has been published in print and digital media through which millions of people have got inspired by him. He never fails to amuse the audiences with his story of sheer bravery, survival, and sailing across the globe.
