Yachting Art Magazine

Behind visible achievements often lie silent but fundamental decisions. Whether it's an ambitious sporting challenge or a daily battle against illness, courage takes many forms, far beyond the heroic gestures we imagine.

In their project to sail across the Atlantic in a Beneteau First 14 SE named JONUKA400 – Mission sans souffle, Jona and Luka Kobler discovered that true courage comes long before you set sail. As Luka explains, the greatest proof of their determination was not setting out to sea, but deciding to continue despite their doubts: ‘It was after the First SE Challenge regatta in April that Jona had to dig deep to find new strength. We had faced rain, cold, calm seas... It was that evening, frozen with cold, that she said: “Let's go anyway.”’

That regatta, with its extreme conditions and freezing nights, was a revelation. Jona recalls: " I had doubts after that ordeal. But by equipping ourselves better and adapting the details—warm clothing, tea, little reassuring gestures—we regained our confidence."

This form of quiet bravery resonates particularly with those living with a chronic condition such as pulmonary hypertension. Recognising your limitations and accepting that you have to live differently is in itself an act of courage. As Darka confides, ‘The hardest part was admitting that my body wasn't working like it used to. Today, I've found a new balance: I ride an electric bike, walk a lot on flat ground, and enjoy every outing.’

The determination not to give up on life despite illness is also expressed in small daily adjustments. Tone says, ‘You have to face reality, adapt and talk openly about what you're going through. And the support of loved ones is extremely important.’ This attitude of active acceptance often makes it possible to transform hardship into a new beginning.

Courage also means investing in your own care, despite the progression of the disease. Iztok sums up his journey as follows: ‘I chose to get fully involved: following treatments, talking to other patients, getting involved in the association. It helps you move forward and feel useful.’

Jona and Luka's mission at sea also illustrates this tenacity: more than 120 nautical miles covered, sleepless nights, and always the renewed choice to continue, despite the fatigue. ‘What struck us from the very first night was this apprehension: the fear of the cold again, of our physical limits already being tested,’ they confide.

Finally, facing illness also means accepting a life now centred on self-care and managing medical constraints without letting yourself be overwhelmed. Adjusting your schedule, taking breaks, preparing for tests and treatments, and continuing to enjoy the things that make life beautiful despite everything.

At the crossroads of their careers as sailors and patients, the same lesson emerges: courage is not measured by records broken, but by the ability to choose life, every day, despite the headwinds. Whether discreet or dazzling, it guides those who move forward, one mile at a time.