Vendée Globe, Sailing race in France
The Vendée Globe is a solo nonstop sailing race in which competitors sail alone around the entire world. The route departs from the French port of Les Sables-d'Olonne, passes through southern oceans, and returns without stopping or receiving any outside assistance.
The race was first held in 1989 and has taken place every four years since then. It established the first nonstop solo sailing voyage around the world with no outside assistance allowed.
The race draws elite sailors from around the world who see it as the ultimate test of their skills and courage. Supporters follow the competitors closely, celebrating their journeys and the human determination required to complete such a demanding voyage.
Spectators can follow the competitors online through live tracking and maps that show their positions in real time. The best time to see the sailors in person is at the start and finish of the race at the port of Les Sables-d'Olonne.
Sailors spend several months alone on their boats during the race, experiencing extreme isolation and physical and mental challenges. Many competitors report personal transformations and a new outlook on life after returning from their journey.
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