On Friday at 1:27 am, Sébastien Simon crossed the finish line of the Vendée Globe, securing a remarkable third place. The native of Les Sables d'Olonne became the first Vendéen to step onto the podium of this mythical event. Through his achievements, technical challenges, and aspirations, this talented sailor invites us to relive an extraordinary adventure.
Sebastien Simon touched the hearts of the people of Les Sables d'Olonne by completing the podium of the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe. "The welcome was extraordinary, despite the freezing cold. It was an incredible moment, and I will cherish unforgettable memories from it," he said. With this performance, he illuminated the night in Les Sables d'Olonne and etched his name into the legend.
Setting sail 65 days ago, the skipper of Groupe Dubreuil undertook an ambitious project, put together in just a year and a half. Supported by a united team and trusted partners, Sébastien Simon not only completed the race but also achieved feats, including setting a speed record by covering 615.33 nautical miles in 24 hours.
A Canal Entry Filled with Emotions
When talking about his entry into the canal at Les Sables-d'Olonne, Sébastien Simon revealed the emotions of the moment: "It was a unique moment, a whirlwind of emotions. I am not someone who likes to be in the spotlight, but this was pure happiness." For this humble and determined sailor, this arrival symbolizes more than just crossing a line: it is a reward for months of hard work.
Sébastien Simon faced obstacles along his journey. In the middle of the Indian Ocean, he had to deal with the breakage of his starboard foil, an incident that could have jeopardized his ambitions. "I also lost the keel bulb in the Pacific and the keel lips, which can be critical as it puts pressure on the keel box," he explained.
Another major challenge was a diesel fuel tank that leaked onto his food supplies. "All my reserves were contaminated. Managing degraded nutrition was a real mental challenge," he added. Despite these trials, the skipper never gave up.
The Vendée Globe: A Global Race
For Sébastien Simon, this edition of the Vendée Globe marked a turning point in the history of the competition: "The pace was relentless. This edition reached a level of competition never seen before. The Vendée Globe is now a true pinnacle race."
Even when assured of his place on the podium, he continued to give his all: "What drives me is the sport and pushing myself without regrets. Until the end, I gave it my all."
With his record of 615.33 nautical miles in 24 hours and a race completed in 65 days, Sébastien Simon and his fellow podium finishers set new standards. Yet, he believes these records are beatable: "Boats are constantly evolving. In four years, they will go even faster." But for him, the Vendée Globe is more than just about speed. "Going fast doesn't make the race easier. Sustaining such speeds is mentally and physically challenging," he emphasized.
An Even Greater Dream
Sébastien Simon sees this third place as a step towards an even bigger goal. "My ultimate dream is to win this race," he stated with determination. With the renewed support of his partner, Paul-Henri Dubreuil, he is already looking ahead to the next edition.
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