At time of publishing, the 8th of November will kick off the 2020/ 2021 Vendée Globe, the world’s toughest sailing race. This year, there will be 33 skippers setting sail from Les Sables d’Olenne in western France. The best solo sailors will line up in this single handed non-stop sprint around the planet with virtually no outside assistance.
However, unlike previous years, the 2020 contenders of this year’s Vendée Globe have dealt with the unanticipated COVID-19 pandemic. Although lockdown restrictions have inevitably prohibited the sailors from hours of practise, it is evident that every skipper has faced this same challenge. The event village would normally see over 3 million visitors pass through but this will of course be restricted to ensure that current regulations are followed for safety.
Will Britain finally see their first victory after 30 years of French defeat? Alex Thomson Racing sure hopes so, this being his fifth time partaking in the race. Famously, in the 2016/2017 Vendée Globe, Thomson’s starboard ‘J foil’ broke 11 days into the race. He ultimately took second-place to winner Armel Le Cléac’h, who set a new record by completing the route in 74 days.
To avoid another frustrating defeat in 2021, Alex Thomson will return with a brand new IMOCA 60. The streamlined technology of the new Hugo Boss paired with Thomson’s determination are sure to grant us an unmissable spectacle.
After a year of marine cancellations, it is certain that the Vendée Globe will keep us on the edge of our seats. For this reason, we at Solent Events are eagerly anticipating (with everything crossed) the beginning of this thrilling race!
Written by – Darcy Hedley
Photo credits – Vendee Globe / Alex Thomson Racing
