Growing up in Otley, West Yorkshire, the sea was not close by, so Heather began her journey, dinghy sailing at a small local lake.

In 2015, Heather’s life changed forever when she was selected for a bursary to sail a leg in the 15/16 Clipper Round the World race. After completing this, she had her eyes set on becoming an offshore sailor and has since worked hard to make her dream a reality.

2024 she skippered ‘Maiden’ in the Ocean Globe Race, a race in which no modern technology is allowed and replicated the first ever crewed race around the world in 1973. She led her team to victory becoming the first all-female team to win an around the world race. This made her the first British female skipper and youngest ever female skipper to win an around the world race. She was named Sailor of the year in the British Yachting Awards 2024.

She has just returned from completing her second lap of the globe, coming third overall in the 2025-2026 Clipper Round the World yacht race, Skippering a crew of amateur sailors over an 11 month circumnavigation.

Lyndsay McClay is Founder of Seadrake and a highly regarded communications specialist with over nine years’ experience across the media and marine sectors. She specialises in public relations strategy, brand development and crisis management, supporting organisations to enhance visibility and deliver measurable results.

She is a Non-Executive Director and President of British Marine and currently serves as Chair of the British Marine South and Isle of Wight Association, playing an active role in shaping the future of the UK marine industry.

Previously Commercial Manager at Marine Industry News, Lyndsay contributed to significant business growth, including over 100% year-on-year revenue increase and expansion to a digital audience of more than 80,000 monthly users.

Recognised for her strategic thinking, collaborative leadership and ability to deliver impactful communications, Lyndsay continues to support businesses in navigating change and driving sustainable growth.