interest in Vendee

[lbdavis]

I am surprised to see such little chatter about the Vendee Globe race. Is this too fancy or high tech and not traditional enough for people? Is anyone following this closely? Do you care at all?

I'm just curious. I think it's frigin' amazing. Personally I'd love to spend an AFTERNOON on one of those boats making 20+. Heck, I'd like to just poke around one while at the dock.

Is this the superbowl of sailing or a disgrace to "real" sailing?

BTW, there was a decent beat down going on at the start of this race.

News

Sad to see Maine's Bruce Schwab not in there...

[artbyjody]

I think because it is "professional racing" and those that are interested in it tune into SA or BMY websites for the info. Besides, have you seen the lack of BBQ grills on those boats - simply disgraceful I tell ya!

[jimjazzdad]

at the Vendée Globe website - really good stuff on this great site! Most of what works for these super boats will eventually trickle down to the average sailor - its a great proving ground for equipment and boat design.

Unlike the America's Cup, these around the world races can be charged with life and death nail-biting excitement. I do't know why the Vendee Globe is not as hugh in North America as it is in Europe...

[Idiens]

Maybe because it starts and ends in France?

[lbdavis]

Originally Posted by Idiens

Maybe because it starts and ends in France?

I know. Those French. They ruin everything. I mean, what have they ever contributed to sailing anyway.

[soulesailor]

Originally Posted by lbdavis

Sad to see Maine's Bruce Schwab not in there...

We do have a connection to the race, though. Great American III was completely outfitted at Maine Yacht Center right here in Portland.

[Giulietta]

I see it, and follow it, but obviously, not here...

[JomsViking]

The French... Hate to admit it, but I've always liked Loïck Peyron and he seems to be doing well. My top favourites are Dee and Samantha though! Dee will be the first woman to circumnavigate both ways when she finishes the Vendee Globe! Check out her website: Aviva Ocean Racing Mobile

[lbdavis]

Originally Posted by soulesailor

We do have a connection to the race, though. Great American III was completely outfitted at Maine Yacht Center right here in Portland.

Good to know Soule man. Sadly however:

"21 Rich Wilson Great American III"

21st place already and already 203.8 nm back from the lead. But, they've got a little ways to go still, ahem.

I'm with you Joms, I'd love to see the women do well!

One of the really cool things about this race (to me) is that finishing is pretty much winning. If they can do a mini-series on the Iditarod Race, I think we should get to see some good HD show on the Vendee. That would be consumable for the average ADD TV viewer. Plus, my warm dry couch is as close as I'll ever come to rounding the Horn in one of these machines.

[scottbr]

I also have a connection. My name is printed on the side of Spirit of Canada and hopefully it will make it around the world. Derek Hatfield has been doing the boat show circuit past couple of years raising donations to fund his race. ( I think that ranks him as an amatuer but I don't know the status of the rest of the skippers) For a donation you had your name printed on the side of the boat and got a few other "goodies" depending on your level of sponsership. I have a Spirit of Canada cap.

I've been watching on the official site. Interesting first day with 8 boats of 30 returning to Port with damage, 2 dismastings, 3 electrical and Hugo Boss with major structural damage a 5 metre crack after he hit something or that is what they think.

Unfortunately Derek got caught with his pants down ( or his sails up) and was knocked down by 50 knot winds. The main sheet wrapped around the wind generator and damaged it, which he requires for power. He also has damage to his mast track and is currently assessing damages and repairs. Luckliy another team has offered to help with the repairs and is back in port trying to get things fixed and back into the race.

I hope the two ladies do well, currently in 12th and 13th place.