Maiden 2019

Childhood tragedy and family upheaval

Edwards loses her father to a heart attack when she is 10. Her mother remarries an abusive alcoholic who moves the family to Wales, creating a difficult home life.

Expulsion and journey toward the sea

At 16 she is expelled from school and runs away, traveling across Europe. She ends up in Greece, where she becomes a stewardess aboard a yacht and learns to sail.

Meet King Hussein and join the Whitbread race

In Greece she meets King Hussein of Jordan, who encourages her to sign on as cook and the only woman on the crew of a Whitbread Round the World Race. The opportunity marks a turning point toward professional sailing.

Post-race ambition for an all-female crew

After the 1985-86 race, Edwards faces skepticism but announces plans to assemble an all-female crew for the next round-the-world race in 1989-90. Her persistence begins to galvanize support for women in sailing.

Mortgage and refit

Edwards mortgages her home to buy Maiden, a second-hand yacht, and remortgages to fund a major refit, largely carried out by the crew. The boat becomes a symbol of their dedication and teamwork.

Sponsorship secured by Royal Jordanian Airlines

King Hussein arranges sponsorship through Royal Jordanian Airlines, providing crucial backing for the project. The financial support helps the all-female crew pursue their dream.

Fastnet Race becomes a setback

Maiden's first race, the Fastnet, is abandoned after an injury to a crew member, leading to the dismissal of her first mate. The setback tests the crew's resolve and cohesion.

Whitbread campaign begins with Maiden at the helm

Maiden continues into the Whitbread Round the World Race, with Edwards serving as skipper and navigator. The crew confronts skepticism but presses on toward the goal.

First leg to Uruguay

Maiden finishes third on the first leg from England to Uruguay, drawing worldwide attention for the all-women crew. The result signals the team’s potential to compete at the highest level.

Second and third legs through the Southern Ocean

During the second and third legs, Maiden sails through the brutal Southern Ocean to Australia and New Zealand, finishing first in their class and earning widespread praise. The voyage proves the crew's skill and resilience under extreme conditions.

Fourth leg back to Uruguay and repairs

On the fourth leg back to Uruguay, the yacht begins taking on water, requiring urgent repairs. The crew demonstrates adaptability and teamwork under pressure.

Fifth leg to Florida

On the fifth leg to Florida, Maiden finishes third, a respectable result that keeps the team competitive. The leg underscores the varied challenges of the race.

Final leg to England impeded by wind

The final leg back to England is plagued by a lack of wind, delaying progress and testing the crew's perseverance. They push forward despite adverse conditions.

Homecoming and acclaim

Maiden finishes second in the race and is welcomed home to great acclaim. The reception helps open doors for more women in sailing and other sports.