Latest Media. New York-Vendee Race Arrivals in Les Sables d'Olonne France.

New York-Vendee Race Arrivals in Les Sables d’Olonne, France

The final leg of the New York Vendee Race delivered on all its promises, from the iconic sights of the Statue of Liberty to the thrilling finish at the renowned Les Sables d’Olonne channel. The solo skippers found themselves engaged in a transatlantic race filled with twists and turns, requiring immense mental fortitude, patience, and an ability to trust their instincts. This race was truly a dress rehearsal before the Vendee Globe – the most prestigious solo round-the-world race.Iconic Images of IMOCAs Crossing NYC and Parisian ChannelThe event was marked by breathtaking images, with the iconic IMOCAs speeding between the Statue of Liberty in Manhattan during the Vendee Liberty event. The skippers faced uncertain weather conditions, leading them to take very distinct opposite routes on the North Atlantic as their playground.The Race’s Innovative Features and GoalsThe New York Vendee Race was innovative in several ways. For the first time, an IMOCA transatlantic race began quite far offshore – nearly 100 miles from the coast – to preserve ecosystems and marine fauna as much as possible. Additionally, marine biodiversity protection zones were fixed on the way out from the US east coast and around the Aros at the start.Competitors’ Battles Across the AtlanticThe race saw its share of intense battles as the competitors faced hard-to-read and erratic weather conditions. Charlie Dalin, on-board Apivia, managed to press ahead and took his first solo victory in an IMOCA transatlantic race.The Race’s Final Sprint to the FinishBeyond Dalin, several other skippers like Sebastian Simon (Groupe Apicil) and Sam Davies (Initiatives Co) managed to make a strong comeback. The entire fleet was able to complete the race on time, with many of them enjoying a fast sprint for the finish line as they surfed the heels of just one low-pressure system.The Community Turnout and WelcomeWhile waiting for the final list of competitors for the Vendee Globe, announced on July 2nd, visitors enjoyed watching the skippers in action along the harbor entrance, around the pontoon in the village. The crowd gathered to greet the returnees – testament to a popular event.The Race’s Importance for Sailors and OrganizersFor the participants, this race was not just about the miles but also served as qualification rounds for the Vendee Globe. The organizers aimed to promote the discipline to a wider audience and showcase French businesses abroad during the Vendée Globe.Reflections from the SkippersReflecting on their experiences, skippers shared thoughts about the race being mentally tough due to the constant changes in wind conditions. Sam Davies talked about adapting her sailing strategy based on the shifting weather models and having a unique learning curve throughout this journey.Conclusion and Looking ForwardThe New York Vendee Race was a memorable event that showcased not just the physical strength of these sailors but their mental resilience as well. With most skippers completing this race, they’ve moved closer to their ultimate goal – participating in the Vendee Globe. For now, though, it’s time for rest and reflection as the final list of competitors for the globe race is announced on July 2nd.Summary: The New York Vendée Race concluded with exhilarating finishes, showcasing solo sailors’ grit and determination. From facing uncertain weather conditions to finishing at Les Sables d’Olonne channel, this transatlantic race tested the mental fortitude and skills of the skippers. The race not only popularized the discipline but also promoted French businesses internationally.