French skipper S\u00e9bastien Simon crossed the Vend\u00e9e Globe finish line in third place at 00h27 (UTC) on Friday January 17, after 67 days, 12 hours and 25 minutes of racing, finishing 2 days and 17 hours behind the overall winner. It’s the first time a sailor from Les Sables d’Olonne, where the legendary solo round the world race starts and finishes has finished on the podium. The Groupe Dubreuil skipper\u2019s race was marked by multiple challenges which contrasted sharply with moments of great success. He smashed the record for the greatest distance covered solo in 24 hours, setting a new mark at 615.33 miles. Breaking his starboard foil could have compromised his chances, yet he showed extraordinary determination to remain on the podium. Simon also distinguished himself with a bold tactical choice in the Indian Ocean depression, as did race winner Charlie Dalin.<\/p>\n
He will now wait until 0700UTC for his passage up the famed Les Sables d\u2019Olonne channel, when the public will celebrate this remarkable Vend\u00e9en sailor who, through dogged determination and perseverance, has added a compelling chapter to the story of a legendary race.<\/p>\n
Read more:\u00a0@VendeeGlobe.org<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n