Abhilash Tommy, the first Indian and second Asian commander to orbit the world, has taken voluntary retirement from the Indian Navy. He will now fulfill his dream by participating in the Golden Globe Race 2020. In fact, Tommy was trapped in a sudden storm during the 2018 Golden Globe Race and was rescued after being in the water for several months after being badly injured.
Giving information about his decision on Sunday, Abhilash said, 'I had sought voluntary retirement from the Indian Navy, it has now been approved. I will now prepare for the Golden Globe Race 2022 to be held after 18 months. ' He also said that a big sponsor is needed for this international tournament, for which he is talking about getting help from some big industrial houses or groups.
Made headlines in 2008
Naval officer Abhilash Tommy made headlines in 2018 when he sank due to the ship's mast breaking in a massive storm 3,200 km off the coast of Western Australia. Abhilash was rescued by a French naval team and suffered extensive injuries.
The whole world revolved in 2013
Earlier, in 2013, with his boat INS Mehdi, he traveled the world in 150 days alone. During this time, he won a lot of praise by beating the winds of more than 100 kilometers per hour and 9-12 feet high waves. His solo journey started from the Gateway of India on 1 November 2012 and he returned to the Gateway of India on 31 March 2013 after completing a journey of 23,100 nautical miles.
Former President Mukherjee welcomed
He was formally welcomed by the then President Pranab Mukherjee at the Gateway of India on 6 April 2013. The President had said, it is a remarkable achievement to sail alone, non-stop, to some of the world's most dangerous oceans while taking a long 150-day voyage on the sea.
Kirti Chakra in 2013, Navy Medal in 2019
Abhilash was given the Kirti Chakra in 2013. He is the second naval officer to receive this award. At the same time, in 2019, President Ramnath Kovind also honored him with the Navy Medal.