What is there left to prove for a man in his mid-70s?
According to former University of Otago physiotherapist Stanley Paris, there is plenty.
Dr Paris (74) plans to become the oldest person to solo circumnavigate the planet from Bermuda, back to Bermuda, in less than 150 days.
He will attempt to beat the record set in 1986 by the late Dodge Morgan at age 54 on his cruise yacht American Promise.
Dr Paris is having a cruise yacht specially built for his voyage.
It was designed by New Zealander Bruce Farr, based on specifications given by Dr Paris, and is now being made at the Lyman-Morse Boatbuilding Co in Maine, United States.
"Being a physical therapist steeped in issues related to safety and ergonomics, I developed an owner's brief that would define comfort, safety and ease of handling.
"A circumnavigation, above all, tests the boat, as well as the skipper. At my age, it would be impossible to mount a successful challenge if the boat were not designed for speed, sea kindliness, safety and ease of handling.
"After all, being in my 70s is not like being in my 20s.
"Now, I like to enjoy a cocktail and relax watching the boat go fast and easy."
His yacht, Kiwi Spirit, will be 19.2m long, 25.6m high, with a retractable bowsprit, lithium ion phosphate batteries; wind, solar and water regeneration; three comfortable cabins and an all-electric galley.
In effect, it will be an environmentally friendly boat, which will circumnavigate the globe with no gas, diesel, propane or butane engine or generator.
Dr Paris has lived in Florida for the past four years, where he founded the University of St Augustine.
He has circumnavigated the globe with a crew, but this would be the first time he has attempted the voyage solo.
He will make the record attempt in November next year, at age 76, and hopes to complete the voyage in about 120 days.
Even though he will make brief stops in ports along the way, including Bluff, there were strict rules about what he could do while there.
"During the voyage, I can't be touched. I can't even receive a loaf of bread or a newspaper."
Although he will be 76 at the time, he does not believe his age will be a barrier.
"I don't really feel my age yet.
"Muscles have speed, strength and endurance. Mine are particularly good for endurance.
That goes well for sailing, running, swimming and cycling."
The boat is scheduled to leave dry dock in Maine on August 13 this year, giving Dr Paris 15 months to prepare for the voyage.
