Monday, January 26, 2009
The Vendee Globe is the pinnacle of solo ocean racing. Initially in this year’s race, there were 30 competitors consisting of an imoca Open 60 class boat with a single yachtsman, sailing around the world without stopping. It has been a battle of attrition with more than half the fleet being forced to retire. It is a true test of a sailor's mental and physical ability as they must weather some of the harshest seas on earth for several months without assistance.
Derek Hatfield and the Spirit of Canada put together a grass roots campaign and built a world class boat. With the support of Canadians across the country they were able to garner support and raise the necessary funds to get to the starting line in Les Sables D'Olonne, France. Derek had some boat damage after the start but was able to make repairs and continue. Unfortunately after performing very well for more than half the race, Derek was forced to retire after a large breaking wave rolled Spirit of Canada and broke two spreaders.
Derek/Spirit of Canada prepares for the Vendee Globe in this video footage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2D4E5W9fMy8&feature=channel_page
The Start of the Vendee Globe: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAk7YI4OrEo
Videos provided by: Resolve Films Inc. and Miz Monday Productions
