This year’s Vendée Globe features an impressive 15 rookies among the 40 competitors preparing for the legendary solo sailing race. Participants like Yoann Richomme and Benjamin Ferré, both first-timers, draw on insights from seasoned sailors to navigate the challenges ahead. With mentorship from experienced racers, they embrace the adventure, focusing on personal growth and resilience rather than just victory. The race promises a vibrant mix of personalities as these newcomers set sail on November 10.
The Exciting Newcomers of the Vendée Globe
Meet the rookies of the Vendée Globe! This year’s anniversary edition boasts an unprecedented 15 newcomers among the 40 competitors gearing up for this monumental sailing challenge. On Sunday, November 10, at exactly 1:02 PM, these brave sailors will set sail from the virtual starting line off the coast of Les Sables-d’Olonne, ready to tackle the ‘Everest of the seas’—the largest solo sailing race in the world, which involves no stops and no assistance.
Rookies Embrace the Challenge
Yoann Richomme, a first-time participant in this legendary race, shared his perspective on being a rookie. “We’re accustomed to being in that position; it’s something we inherit in many races,” he explained. “In every regatta, we interact with both newcomers and seasoned sailors, which adds to the charm of these events. The diversity of participants—men and women, young and old, skilled and inexperienced—creates a vibrant mix of personalities.” Richomme, who commands Paprec-Arkéa, has quickly established himself as a formidable contender in the fleet. With an impressive resume that includes victories in the Solitaire du Figaro and Route du Rhum, he is approaching this challenge with high expectations.
In preparation for this monumental journey, Richomme sought guidance from those more experienced. “I asked numerous questions and found valuable insights from seasoned sailors,” he noted, highlighting his collaboration with Yann Eliès, a veteran who has completed the Vendée Globe twice. “His mentorship allowed me to cover a lot of ground. I also engaged in discussions within the training center in Port-la-Forêt, and immersed myself in past race accounts and videos to better visualize what lies ahead. Now, I feel ready and unperturbed.”
Benjamin Ferré, another rookie sailing on Monnoyeur-Duo for a Job, has also benefited from the wisdom of seasoned racers. With the guidance of Jean Le Cam, a five-time Vendée Globe veteran, Ferré has gained confidence. “Meeting Jean was pivotal for me,” he shared. “His encouragement, especially when he said, ‘You can do the Vendée Globe,’ motivated me to take this leap.” Ferré’s journey in offshore racing began in 2019, and having Le Cam as a mentor has enriched his experience.
For Ferré, living with Jean and his wife Anne in Port-la-Forêt was like returning home. “I spent three months with them, and it truly felt like family,” he reminisced. “Our bond deepened as we shared meals and conversations, which now feel like a cherished ritual.” These discussions often revolve around technical aspects of sailing and preparation for the Vendée Globe, providing Ferré with invaluable insights.
“Jean often calls me on Friday or Saturday nights for long chats, offering reassurance and understanding,” Ferré said. “While I may not possess his extensive knowledge, I draw inspiration from our conversations. For instance, he recently reminded me that humans tend to be lazy, especially in the cold Southern seas, which prompted me to rethink my approach to maneuvering.” Though Ferré may not aim for victory, his goal remains clear: to successfully complete this extraordinary adventure.