Every four years there is a strange yet strong calling to a small sleepy fishing town in the Vendée region of France. People descend upon this town in their droves. This seaside fishing town turns into an international destination welcoming everyone with open arms, fabulous hospitality and an electric air of excitement that is palpable. It is a race many sailors dream about.
When it came to the 2020 edition of the race, although the urge to travel to Les Sables D’Olonne was as strong as ever, we were in the grip of a global pandemic that prevented attendance. I have recollections of sitting in a remote booth commentating on the main attraction in this seaside fishing town. Then, it was 33 intrepid sailors taking on an adventure of a lifetime, making a dream come true and realising an ambition that many underestimate. Fast forward four years and we are back again but, this time, it all feels just a little bigger and better than I remember.
I am on location in Les Sables D’Olonne to celebrate and give the best send off to 40 sailors as they embark on the prestigious Vendée Globe. A solo, non-stop, unassisted race around the world. I first attended in 2000 as part of the team for British sailor Mike Golding. I was in awe of the atmosphere, rubbing shoulders with sailors I had seen in the magazines and working alongside teams ensuring that these incredible race yachts could undergo the most arduous racetrack.
Eight years later, I was back but that time it was me parading out from the marina, along the infamous channel, waving to the crowds that amass from the early hours to get the best seats to cheer the sailors. I was taking the start of the Vendée Globe. Although it was my third time sailing around the world, it was the first time I had done so in an easterly direction. In fact, it was eventual winner of the 2008 edition, Michel Desjoyeaux, who sent me an email reminding me to turn left at the bottom of the Atlantic! I was just delighted he knew who I was.
I finished that race in 6th place out of 33 starters and imbedded myself in the Vendée Globe legacy. I made friends for life and had experiences that have helped me progress. Since then, I have gone on to achieve many more laps and race adventures, but I still return to every Vendée Globe to be part of something special.
Indeed, to make it to the start line is the first win that each and every skipper and team can celebrate. For many, the emotion pouring out of the fishing town of Les Sables D’Olonne is often missed due to nerves and excitement, all tinged with a little fear of what lays ahead. It does not matter if this is your first race or your sixth, this is the Vendée Globe and anything can happen. We obviously have a form guide, with previous results and experience speaking volumes. However, mother nature is the one that is really in charge of our racetrack in the world’s ocean. It is how each skipper deals with what is thrown at them that is the key to success.
Of the 40 skippers that started on Sunday, it is unlikely that all of them will finish. I hope this will be the year that bucks the trend but history has shown us a high attrition rate. All these skippers will have challenges to manage which will come in the form of weather, damage, breakage, illness or injury. No one will have an easy ride, but each day their confidence will grow and each day they will share their story. I am looking forward to being part of the team that will help you follow the progress of the race each day, understand the characters, meet the new stars of our sport and fully immerse yourself in the special sailing race that is so much more than a sporting challenge. I hope you enjoy the Vendée Globe with me this year.
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