On April 24, Wakefield had completed more than half of his circumnavigation and was 300 miles northeast of the Falkland Islands and about 750 miles from Cape Horn when the Kim Chow was rolled over in 50-plus knot winds and massive seas. As a result, Wakefield suffered head and rib injuries, his engine became inoperable, the steering was damaged, and the life raft was lost along with his dodger and the solar panels used to charge his batteries. A hatch was also swept away, and the Kim Chow was taking on water. Initially, Wakefield planned to continue on with the voyage, but the damage to himself and the boat forced him to abandon the voyage.

On April 27, he was taken aboard an Argentine navy vessel—which had to wait for 36 hours for the weather to calm enough to effect the transfer. Kim Chow was abandoned. Aboard the navy vessel, Wakefield was treated by a physician. Wakefield has since returned to his home in Victoria and the welcome arms of his family.

For more information visit www.kimchowaroundtheworld.com