Sébastien Simon couldn't hide his tears at the idea of ​​having to leave his dog

SPORT – For some, pets are full members of the family. This in any case seems to be the case for skipper Sébastien Simon, who took the start of the Vendée Globe, this legendary solo nautical race, this Sunday, November 10. The athlete appeared very emotional when leaving for several weeks away from his dog.

When boarding, the 34-year-old sailor did not hide his tears at the RMC microphone. “ I want to share these last moments with my family, my team and my partners who are all there on the pontoon. We don't have much time to say goodbye to them.”added the one sponsored by the Dubreuil group.

“It was a rough night. When we leave like that for a world tour and abandon our comfort, these are very difficult times. I can’t wait to be at sea so that the emotions are behind me”added the skipper, who is in his second participation in this legendary competition.

Tears for his dog

“I said at the opening of the village that I wanted to enjoy these emotions as a spectator and I’m getting caught in my own game a bit,” conceded the one who had to abandon off the Cape of Good Hope in 2020, then 4th in the race. “It's been three days since I've had trouble containing all my emotions. But it’s also very beautiful.”

The athlete was on the verge of tears when talking about the pet with whom he shares his daily life, his dog Chiffon. “It’s ridiculous to cry over a dog…but yes, she’s home.” I’ll see her again in two and a half months.” And to stay in communication with her despite the distance, Sébastien Simon has a ready-made solution: “I“I will send him 'voices' (voice messages, editor's note), as I did on the first Vendée”, he said.

Created in 1989, the Vendée Globe still attracts many curious people for the big departure, beyond sailing enthusiasts. A solo sporting and human journey which will last at least 74 days.

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