Vendée Globe: Boris Herrmann is on his way - Emotional moments at the big farewell
In a few hours, the Vendée Globe will start: Boris Herrmann sets off on his second circumnavigation of the world.
With his yacht "Seaexplorer - Yacht Club de Monaco", Herrmann will cast off from Les Sables-d'Olonne, France, on Sunday at 1:20 p.m. (CET) to take part in the ninth edition of the non-stop solo regatta around the world. At the side of the Hamburg native will be his new co-skipper Will Harris from New Zealand. After a short stop in Cape Town, South Africa, the two sailors will sail via the three major capes into the Southern Ocean. The Vendée Globe is considered one of the toughest sporting competitions in the world.
The goal is to sail around the world as quickly as possible without making any stops or receiving any outside assistance.
The route leads from Les Sables-d'Olonne across the Atlantic, around the Cape of Good Hope, then around the Cape Leeuwin off Australia and around Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America, before returning to Les Sables-d'Olonne. The Vendée Globe was first held in 1989 and has been held every four years since 2008. The fastest time so far was set in 2017 by Frenchman François Gabart, who completed the race in 78 days, 2 hours, and 16 minutes.
Boris Herrmann is considered one of the favorites for this year's Vendée Globe.
In 2020, he finished fifth in the race and set a new German record. The 41-year-old wants to improve on this result this year. His yacht is considered one of the most modern and fastest in the fleet. Herrmann has prepared meticulously for the race and is confident of his chances. The Vendée Globe is a race against time, against the elements and against oneself. It is a race that demands everything from the sailors. Herrmann is ready for this challenge.
Emotional farewell before the Vendée Globe
On Saturday evening, there was an emotional farewell ceremony for Boris Herrmann and his team in Les Sables-d'Olonne. Hundreds of fans gathered at the harbor to cheer on the sailors. Herrmann and Harris were visibly moved by the support. "This is a very special moment for me," said Herrmann. "I am proud to be able to represent Germany in the Vendée Globe."
The Vendée Globe is a race that inspires people all over the world.
It is a race that shows what is possible if you believe in yourself and never give up. Herrmann is a role model for many people, and his journey around the world will be followed with great interest.
