The Journey - Rikard & 'XAR'

The Journey is a portrait series that brings you closer to the Garmin Round Denmark Race. We follow sailors from different backgrounds, with different boat types and dreams, giving insight into their journey — both physically and mentally. The series is a collection of personal stories showing what drives them, the challenges they face, and the moments that leave lasting impressions.

Each portrait in the series is a small story about dedication, teamwork, and experiences at sea. We want to inspire future participants and give a vivid insight into what awaits them when they embark on this unique sailing adventure.

Welcome to “The Journey: XAR – Experience Meets Endurance” — a window into Rikards Garmin Round Denmark Race 2025 in his XP-44 'XAR'.

With more than half a century of sailing behind him, Rikard Roth, 63 years old, is a sailor with a deep connection to the sea. His story began on the beaches of Falsterbo in southern Sweden, sailing a small Trissjolle. Over the decades, he has handled boats like the IF-boat and the Luffe 37, but in 2005, he was ready for something new — something faster, more modern, and more demanding.

“Originally, I was looking for a one-design boat like the X-35, so I travelled to Haderslev to check it out. But when I met X-Yachts CEO Lars Netterström, he suggested the X-43 instead. Bigger, stronger, and beautiful — and that’s how XAR was born.”

Since then, he has stayed loyal to X-Yachts, changing boats three times and now sailing an XP-44 from 2021 — a sleek, carbon-masted performance cruiser with a custom keel and rudder. With more than 24,000 nautical miles logged, XAR has seen its share of adventures.

The Drive to Join

For some sailors, the Garmin Round Denmark Race is about competition. For others, it’s about adventure — pushing the limits close to home.“I’m drawn to adventure sailing, the kind that tests what’s possible nearby. The Round Denmark Race offers exactly that — a friendly yet demanding challenge with both offshore and inshore conditions.”

Facing the Challenges

The 2025 edition of the race turned out to be one of patience and persistence.“It was a light-wind race for the most part. We only had a couple of windy moments — one approaching Bornholm with 25 knots downwind and waves up to three meters, and another after rounding Bornholm heading toward Gedser, where we met the same 25 knots again, this time upwind.”

Beyond the wind, the mental game was constant.“The 36-hour limit keeps you busy. You’re always planning, checking forecasts, and calculating where to rest without losing ground. One wrong decision — stopping too early or too long — can change everything. It’s a continuous balance between rest and race.”

Performance Under Pressure

A race like this tests both sailor and boat — and XAR proved itself once again.“The boat performed perfectly, except for one small issue — the traveller on the mainsail broke near Nexø. Luckily, I could fix it in calm conditions.”

Why X-Yachts?

For him, the choice of boat is about trust and performance.“X-Yachts are incredibly reliable. You can push them hard with more sail area without feeling unsafe. They stay strong and stable — and very little spray ever reaches the cockpit.

They’re fast, comfortable, and built to last. And the support from the X-Yachts team in Haderslev — just a few hours from my home harbour — has been excellent. When you sail thousands of miles, things will always need attention. Their service is top-notch.”

Memorable Moments

Even after decades of sailing, there are moments that stand out — small but unforgettable snapshots of time.“The corner rounding near Aarhus — seeing the finish line, knowing I was almost there. Ten minutes away in my head… but in reality, it took two hours to cover those last 2,000 metres. That’s sailing!”

Lessons From the Race

Sailing is as much about mindset as muscle — and this year’s race was proof of that.“I learned that even at 63, I can still handle long races and keep changing sails without getting too tired. Experience really counts out there.”

A Word of Advice

Long-distance sailing requires focus — and a clear head.“My best advice is simple: forget what’s happening at home. Focus completely on your boat and the race. That’s the key to truly being present.”

In One Sentence

When asked to describe the Garmin Round Denmark Race in just a few words, he smiles:“If you love adventure and want to see all of Denmark from the sea — this is the race for you.”

Thank You for the Journey — and See You on the Water

With XAR, decades of experience met the enduring thrill of discovery. His story is a reminder that sailing isn’t just about competition — it’s about curiosity, endurance, and joy.

Every sailor in the Garmin Round Denmark Race adds their own voice to a greater story — one of wind, waves, and willpower. We hope XAR’s journey inspires more sailors to join, challenge themselves, and write their own Journey in 2026.

Registration for GRDR26 opens monday 27th October at 10:00am with a 25% discount, when using the code "GRDR25OFF".