Friday 19 August 2016
A truly international eighth edition
Four continents, ten nationalities. The Vendée Globe has never brought together such an eclectic line-up as we can see in this eighth edition, which will start in 78 days from now on 6th November. Among the nine foreign skippers taking part, three are returning to the non-stop solo round the world race: Alex Thomson, Nandor Fa and Rich Wilson. The others are tackling the Everest of the seas for the first time. Two of these rookies are continuing with a tradition of solo round the world sailing in Switzerland (Alan Roura) and Spain (Didac Costa). The four other foreign skippers registered are representing their respective countries for the first time: Kojiro Shiraishi (Japan), Pieter Heerema (Netherlands), Enda O’Coineen (Ireland) and Conrad Colman (New Zealand).
We met up with Conrad Colman this week. The young skipper has everything it takes to delight others during his global adventure. But he still does not yet have all the required funding to be able to line up in the best of shape. Conrad is still looking for a headline partner, so if anyone is interested…
But let’s not forget the French skippers in this international line-up. Eight of the big French names will be taking part in three training courses organised by the Finistère ocean racing centre in Port-la-Forêt (SW Brittany). This centre worked alongside the last four winners of the Vendée Globe. The head of the training centre, Christian Le Pape explains to us what lies behind this success.
Hope you enjoy this newsletter. Have a good weekend!
Ten nations represented in the eighth Vendée Globe
The internationalisation of the Vendée Globe is clearly underway. Out of the 28 skippers registered and so far qualified, nine come from outside of France. In all, four continents and ten nations are represented in this eighth edition: France,
Three training courses in Port-la-Forêt before the start of the Vendée Globe
Conrad Colman looking for partners to complete his budget
www.vendeeglobe.org
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