Start as a synchronized swimmer

Before her sailing career took off Sam was a competitive synchronised swimmer and has remained a keen swimmer ever since. She works as hard at her fitness and psychological preparation as she does her boat preparation and she surrounds herself with a knowledgeable team that she works well with a trusts to enable her to have the confidence to get the best out of herself and her boat.

Sam Davies was skipper of the female crew at the Volvo Ocean Race 2014/15 © Ian Splinter/CC BY-SA 4.0

Her communication is fun loving and highlights her happy disposition displaying her obvious passion for being out at sea and sailing well. Apart from looking to be on that podium as a naturally competitive sailor, Sam would like to beat Armel Le Cleac’h time of 74 days and not forgetting her other incentive each day she faces the harsh environment that mother nature throws her way, she hopes to raise enough money for the charity to save 60 children with live saving operations.

Learning a lot sailing with Sam

I have had the honour to sail both with and against Sam. We sailed together on my IMOCA to secure the Round Britain and Ireland Record in 2009 and then we sailed together on Team SCA to beat that record in 2014. I was part of her team in the Volvo Ocean Race and I have been a huge fan watching her preparation for this edition of the Vendee Globe. I have learnt a lot from watching and following her. She really does help you be the best version of yourself. I also made sure I sent her some morale boosting treats to be packed into her supplies for the race to send my love and encouragement for when times get difficult.

She is a role model and inspiration to so many © Maxime Horlaville/Polaryse

She will be one to watch for this race for sure and while she may not have the fastest boat on paper, we know that she has great consistency and can maintain the pressure for the duration of this race. There is absolutely no reason why Samantha Davies could not be on the podium and I for one would be so proud of her achievements at the end of this race no matter the result. She is a role model and inspiration to so many of us and she sets the bar super high for future sailors who aspire to race in the Vendee Globe.

Successful right from the start

Sam Davies is in a very good position since she started. In this moment she is 9th and has just crossed the equator. See her on the tracker here.

Sam Davies recently gave a detailed interview to the Royal Yachting Association.

Where is the regatta field currently located? Click here for the race tracker.