Just like the World Cup or the Olympic Games, the Vendée Globe takes place every four years. With each edition, the organization and the city of Les Sables d’Olonne aim even higher. This eighth edition is no exception.
“The greatest solo race” is the event eagerly awaited by sailing enthusiasts, admirers of sailors, and curious vacationers on the Vendée coast. This 2016-2017 edition, the eighth of its kind, is already making history with its extravagance and the quality of the participants (29 skippers, around ten contenders for victory). And to think this is only the beginning…
Such a long wait
Since the afternoon of January 23, 2013, and the stunning success of François Gabart (on MACIF), breaking the record by more than 6 days, 1,384 days have passed until the start, which will take place this Sunday, November 6 at 1:02 PM in front of over 350,000 spectators (according to some media reports). In terms of attendance, the numbers for the first week did not decline compared to 2012 (300,000 visitors) and increased in the second week (380,000). The Vendée Globe remains popular with both young and old, enchanted by the boats lined up over more than 300 meters. To reach the much-anticipated pontoons where the 29 boats are moored, one often has to wait between 45 minutes to an hour.
A grandiose village
On Saturday, October 15, the “VG2016” village opened its doors to the public for three weeks (it will remain open during the first few days of the race as well). For the first time, it occupies the entire space of the now very famous Port Olona, forming, from above, a fairly impressive “U.” On one side, about fifty local producers offer their products, while on the other side, spectators can roam thousands of square meters to see or revisit previous editions, enjoy goodies from the organization, or even play at being an apprentice skipper. On the press side, the authorities have gone all out with a massive press center, television studios, and a terrace for breathtaking view live broadcasts.
