Chuan (pictured top), who is set to challenge a world record in non-stop solo sailing next month, becomes the first Chinese personality to join the prestigious team of elite athletes who support the initiative.

Peace and Sport, based in Monaco, is an apolitical body that works towards achieving sustainable peace throughout the world.

"I feel pleased and honoured to become the first Chinese Champion for Peace and Sport," Chuan commented.

"I hope my circumnavigation will bring more inspiration to young generations.

"I also wish to spread the message of sustainable peace across the world through sailing and help foster social stability."

The diminutive Akilaria Class 40 boat in which Champion for Peace Chuan Guo will attempt to set a non-stop solo sailing world record

Peace and Sport President Joël Bouzou said: "We are very pleased to welcome Chuan Guo into the Peace and Sport family.

"With an ambitious and meaningful sporting challenge, and the whole planet as a playground, Chuan Guo perfectly embodies what Peace and Sport stands for: using sport as a universal language that unites everyone."

The involvement of Chuan brings the total number of Peace and Sport champions to 69 from 37 countries and expands the diversity of sports disciplines represented by the organisation.

Chuan's 21,600-nautical mile solo odyssey, which it is hoped will be completed inside 130 days aboard a 40-foot Akilaria Class 40 boat – the smallest category craft not requiring a call at port during the navigation – will create a new world record in human trans-ocean navigation.

While leading seafarers such as Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Dame Ellen MacArthur and Francis Joyon have all hit the headlines for single-handed global excursions, no yachtsman has ever attempted a solo non-stop circumnavigation in such a small-sized boat as the Chinaman's.

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