Glenn and Marylou moments before the departure.

Glenn takes daughters Claire and Nicola on a stroll prior to the start.

Saying goodbye to mom and friend Damien

Dan decides it's time to break out the champagne to mark the occasion.

Claire, Glenn, Marylou and Nicola share a laugh

Supporters come in all sizes. Mike made sure Glenn came to speak to his grade 5 class about his adventure.

Glenn with business partner Steve Brossard who will continue to operate Wakefield Contracting in Glenn's absence.

Glenn chats with sister Mary and brother-in-law Dan who provided delicious food and champagne for the occasion.

Long time friends and sailing companions James, Peter and Michael are there to wish Glenn fair winds and following seas.

Marylou, Claire and Nicola join the crew of Unit 35 Canadian Auxiliary Coast Guard in preparation to tow KimChow to the start line.

Doing some last minute media interviews

On departure day, Claire and Nicola decorate the main salon and nav station with family photos to keep me company.

The nav station

Safety harness in place...

With her drive shaft sealed in accordance with the rules of the World Sailing Speed Record Council, Kim Chow is towed through Victoria's Inner Harbour to the start line.

Under tow with start boat behind.

Getting the spinakker ready to hoist moments before crossing the start line.

Kim Chow's logo designed by local graphic designer Soren Henrich.

Spinakker displays "Sword through Water" logo (KimChow translated to English), designed by Soren Henrich.

The long awaited moment of crossing the start line. The dream begins.

Under main and jib, Kim Chow is on her way.

Happy to be finally underway

Alone at the helm, Glenn heads off on his 28,000 mile journey.