IN one of the world’s most challenging endurance events, Port Stephens Yacht Club member Kevin Le Poidevin is taking on a non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation of the world in his vessel ‘Roaring Forty’.

Kevin is 62-years-old and spent the last four years preparing for the epic journey around the world, known as the Global Solo Challenge.

Roaring Forty is a 1997 Lutra BOC Open 40 water ballast carbon boat.

Kevin is competing in support of the Brain Tumour Alliance Australia and Soldier On.

Self funding his entry, the experienced sailor hopes to complete the circumnavigation in 150 days.

Kevin has provided News Of The Area with updates along the way.

“This morning early still blowing dogs off chains and just stepping out of another 45 knot squall,” he reported one morning.

“It’s now moderating into the 20s so time for a peek into the crystal ball to see what surprises the weather has in store for today.”

On 1 February Kevin was dodging storms and was looking forward to approaching the Australian coast where he was challenged by a high and low weather system.

He is enduring weather with 50 knot gusts and has been shortening his sail, taking in four reefs to compensate for the weather.

Kevin has also been completing running repairs on the vessel and is in good spirits as he continues on his voyage.

By Marian SAMPSON