HKC Expedition 1:
An Odyssey of Adventure

Salient Features

Country: France
Date: November 2022 - April, 2023
Route: Solo circum navigation by Abhilash by BAYANAT(ex Gregal)
Category : Adventure – Competition
Themes: Exploration & Knowledge sharing
First Sea based HKC sponsored Expedition. Exchanged hands with BAYANAT prior to GGR Race commencement

Concept

Acquisition of sail boat GREGAL was motivated by OPC’s broader social objectives. While the boat’s immediate purpose was to support Abhilash’s participation in GGR, its long-term vision was focused on pioneering HKC Expeditions. The objective: to leverage GREGAL for inspiring seabased adventures aimed at exploration, community engagement, and fostering maritime heritage.

Objectives

The project was taken up with larger view of HKC social objectives to be implemented through bigger sailing boat which can accommodate 10-15 people and go around the world as a research platform for ocean science, climate change, pollution, alternate energy.
To transfer knowledge through our association with Abilash Tomy.

Team

Cmdr. Abhilash Tomy and HKC Team until hand exchanged with BAYANAT

General Information

An accidental telephone with Abhilash lead to acquisition of sail boat GREGAL (RUSTLUR 36) from celebrity French sailor Philip Piche to enable him participate in GGR(2022-2023) for Solo Circum Navigation by sea around the globe
Thus it became HKC expedition-01.
HKC roots germinated in 1998 when ODC foundation was established, Several small & medium social projects were carried out. This eventually evolved in establishing HKC Projects & Expeditions

Route & Places visited :

Solo Circum Navigation by sea around the globe by Abhilash under sailboat

Prior to that the Sail Boat was named "Gregul" owned by an Indian individual who as part of HKC, purchased, financed, maintained and documented until it exchanged hands with BAYANAT about 3 months prior to the Race.

The boat "Gregal" had historical and legendary records by the French celebrated Sailor Mr Phillipe Peche

Impact and Awareness

Abhilash’s journey in the GGR 2022-23 aboard BAYANAT was a triumphant one, culminating in a stellar second-place finish. This remarkable feat not only demonstrated exceptional skill and perseverance but also became the foundation for the HKC Sea Expeditions.

A chance call from a close friend in France soon after the race brought the team to Normandy, where new opportunities for sea-based adventures unfolded.