Dee Caffari, supported by Aviva, is the first woman in history to sail single-handed, non-stop, around the world against the prevailing winds and currents.

Not content with one extraordinary record, she now plans to become the first woman to sail solo, non-stop around the world in both directions by competing in the gruelling 2008-09 Vendée Globe.

The inspiration and willpower that Dee embodied in completing the Aviva Challenge in May 2006 – an epic, 178-day journey the “wrong way” around the world – was a masterclass in skill, guts and determination.

She said: “When I was sailing against the winds deep in the Southern Ocean, when the storms seemed endless and the horrific conditions forced me into survival mode, I moved my goalposts closer and focused on getting to the next step, so I constantly felt I was making progress towards the finish line.

“Aviva’s support helped me to discover and define my own future in life, and helped me do my own forward thinking. Aviva is a company that helps you take control of your own destiny.”

Aviva is proud of its continuing partnership with Dee. She is determined to push back the boundaries of her sport and inspires others to do the same in their own lives. Her sustained focus on the future and looking ahead to fresh challenges epitomises our “Forward thinking” campaign.