Lucas’ Global Sailing Adventure Continues

Lucas Radev Roig, originally from Spain and former A-Level student at East Sussex College’s Lewes campus, is well underway in the full 11-month Clipper Round the World Yacht Race as part of Team UNICEF.

Lucas previously featured on the College blog ahead of the race, highlighting his selection as a circumnavigator and his journey from Lewes to the high seas.

As a circumnavigator, Lucas is one of a select few crew members completing the entire 40,000-nautical-mile route, spanning six oceans and more than a dozen countries.

His studies in Biology, Environmental Science, and Marine Science have only strengthened his passion for the ocean and environmental issues, which he’s putting into practice every day on board.

“I went into Clipper without really setting any expectations about how I would feel, even though I had a good idea I would enjoy it,” Lucas told the College. “I wanted to see how I felt on the water and answer a question I’ve been pondering for a while: whether I want to spend a good chapter of my life at sea, chasing horizons and being in remote places. So far, the answer has been yes, and I feel very content with the experience. It’s rewarding to have something to aim for in the future.”

Lucas says his previous experience living with strangers at Caburn House gave him a head start in adapting to life on a close-knit, diverse crew.

“Having the experience of learning to live with strangers in Caburn House definitely made me more comfortable sharing tight spaces on board. The main difference is the age gap – the oldest crew member is 70 – but having had that experience has given me an advantage in dealing with different situations on board. It’s been very apparent that it has done me a lot of good.”

His studies are proving invaluable at sea, helping him understand the environmental challenges he encounters firsthand.

“Besides answering the occasional trivia question from a crew member about marine biology, my studies have enhanced my motivation to explore these topics in depth,” said Lucas. “Seeing issues like plastic pollution firsthand, along with massive fishing fleets and cargo ships, has been heartbreaking. Knowing the harm these things cause makes me more determined to learn and take action where I can.”

Lucas has also learned how to adapt to new environments and collaborate effectively under pressure.

“Learning to adapt to new environments has made it easier to live and work closely with a diverse crew, even in very confined conditions. It’s taught me patience, flexibility, and how to collaborate effectively in challenging circumstances.”

Lucas describes his role with Team UNICEF as a truly inspiring experience. “Being part of Team UNICEF has been a blessing,” said Lucas. “I feel very connected to their values and deeply admire everyone contributing to the organisation. It’s clear that their work safeguarding children’s livelihoods is vitally needed. I’m proud to play even a small part in that mission.”

He’s also learning the importance of resilience, both physically and mentally, as the race pushes him to his limits.

“I’ve learned a lot about both mental and physical resilience. The bad times are part of the experience, and good times are around the corner. Night watches are often the toughest – they’re cold, and mentally challenging – but I’ve learned to look forward to the sunrise and understand that difficult moments will pass.” Lucas added, “You just have to push through and not fight the situation.”

Looking ahead, Lucas is excited for the months to come, especially sailing through Southeast Asia, while also anticipating the toughest challenge yet: the North Pacific.

“I’m really looking forward to sailing in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. The culture and sailing traditions there are very inspiring, and I really relate to the barefoot, sea-vagabond lifestyle. The biggest challenge ahead is probably the North Pacific, crossing from China to America. It tends to be rough and cold, so it will be the hardest stretch, but I’m excited to face it.”

Lucas’s journey is an inspiring reminder of the skills, resilience, and determination developed at East Sussex College, proving that young people with big ambitions can take on the world - literally.

Find out how you could follow in his footsteps at upcoming Open Events on 20th November across all campuses.