Watch: Jazz Turner, record-holding disabled sailor, joins our Pro-Am

At Friday’s Pro Am race in Portsmouth, UK (15 August 2025), we were honoured to welcome Jazz Turner – the first disabled sailor to complete a solo, unassisted circumnavigation of the UK and Ireland.

Sailing onboard Emira IV alongside Pip Hare, Jazz brought her trademark determination and infectious enthusiasm to the crew. We asked Jazz a few questions about why she connects with the sea and how she has overcome barriers to achieving her dreams.

“For me, the sea is just total freedom. You can be who you want out there – there’s no judgment. It’s just you and Mother Nature, and it’s just beautiful.”

Jazz’s story is one of resilience and strength. Despite being told her dreams were “impossible for someone like me,” she has consistently fought to prove the doubters wrong:

“Every time someone tells me no, it’s just a reason for me to fight harder and prove them wrong. Maybe that’s just the stubborn bit – stubborn as a donkey, as my parents always described me.”

She is quick to say she doesn’t aim to be a role model – but her achievements speak volumes.

“I’ve never meant to inspire people. I’m only ever out there for myself because I love the sea and I love sailing. If people can take inspiration from just always saying ‘yes’ no matter what the world throws at them, then that’s a bonus.”

Our skipper, Scott Shawyer, praised Jazz as a true embodiment of the team’s ethos: “Jazz is a brilliant example of what ‘Choose Your Adventure’ really means. She shows the courage to follow her own path, even when others say it can’t be done. We were privileged to have her with us in Portsmouth.”

In the video below, she sat down with Pip to reflect on what the sea means to her and the journey that has brought her this far.