BIOGRAPHY
British Yachtswoman Dee Caffari has sailed into the history books. In May 2006, Dee became the first woman to circumnavigate the world solo ‘the wrong way’ (against the prevailing winds and currents). It is an extraordinary achievement. Only four men have ever managed to finish this gruelling route before: more people have walked on the moon. In recognition of her first world record, Dee was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday honours list.

Just months after her first solo circumnavigation Dee launched a campaign for a new world record, announcing that she wanted to become the first woman to sail solo, non-stop around the world in both directions. In order to do this Dee entered the highly competitive world of Open 60 racing. Dee faced a daunting task. She aimed to compete against the best international sailors in a race held every four years ‘the right way’ around the world. After one of the most dramatic Vendée Globes ever known (2008/09), Dee and her yacht ‘Aviva’ finished a triumphant sixth on the 16 February 2009 and claimed a double world-first.

On her return from the Vendée Globe in 2009, Dee decided it was time to challenge a record a little closer to home: the Round Britain and Ireland monhull speed record. Onboard her Open 60, Dee lead an all-woman crew to attempt the record. Dee knows that in sport as well as business, having the right team is vital to success. On 22 June 2009, sailing 1800 miles around Britain and Ireland, the girls crossed the finish line to complete the course in 6 days 11 hours (breaking the record by a staggering 17 hours and 16 minutes).

Dee now has her sights set firmly on the Vendee Globe 2012. Dee is currently preparing to participate in the Barcelona World Race that begins on New Year’s Eve 2010.

MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKING
Dee’s courage, determination and motivation to complete both round-the-world voyages alone have inspired many. Originally a secondary school teacher, Dee only began her sailing career in 2000. Today she has proven herself to be a yachtswoman of the highest calibre. Dee knows the importance of having self-belief, facing your fears, being motivated when times are tough, staying focused, coping with set-backs and remaining positive as conditions inevitably change. She fully appreciates the importance of the team behind the scenes (on the shore) who are so vital in preparing the boat, as well as helping her achieve high performance and ultimately, success.

WHAT OTHERS SAY...
‘Dee’s presentation is so relevant to today’s business environment. A fantastic lady! A very down-to-earth pragmatic person who has overcome a huge personal challenge to achieve the impossible: her passion is tangible. The Q&A session was particularly good as what she learnt really came to life.’
Royal Bank of Scotland

‘Dee’s presentation was a wonderful and highly effective way to engage and inspire our employees about Aviva’s values of Teamwork, Integrity, Progressiveness, and Performance.  Dee related her sailing adventures and communication skills to every day life and we could all learn from her experiences.’
Aviva Canada Inc