At 23, Violette Dorange is setting off in the 2024 Vendée Globe, becoming the youngest participant in the history of this legendary race around the world. But who is this French skipper?
The Vendée Globe is a solo sailing race, non-stop and without assistancewhich began in 1989. Every four years, it brings together skippers from all over the world ready to take on this extreme challenge: sailing alone around the planet. The history of this race is marked by impressive events, formidable climatic conditions and unforgettable human exploits. In 2017, the record was set by Armel Le Cléac'h in 74 days, demonstrating the evolution of technologies and performances.
But beyond the competition, this edition of the Vendée Globe 2024 aims to raise public awareness of the preservation of the oceans. While sailing around the planet, skippers highlight the fragility of our marine ecosystems in the face of global warming. They are direct witnesses to the changes underway, particularly in areas as vulnerable as Antarctica, where melting ice and rising temperatures threaten the balance of fauna and flora.
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The pioneers of the Vendée Globe, audacity and determination
Since its creation in 1989, the Vendée Globe has been marked by women who have challenged the oceans and proven their resilience in this legendary race. In 1997, Catherine Chabaud made history by becoming the first woman to complete this event, an unprecedented feat in the world of sailing. Her tenacity and spirit of adventure have inspired a new generation of sailors, ready to overcome waves and storms. Among them, Ellen MacArthur, a Briton who, in 2001, finished second in the race at just 24 years old. She is thus the youngest skipper to accomplish such a feat.
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In subsequent editions, other women have distinguished themselves, such as Samantha Davies, who finished fourth in 2008-2009, captivating the public with her audacity in the face of the difficulties encountered at sea. More recently, Clarisse Crémer also made an impression in 2020 becoming the fastest woman in the history of the Vendée Globe, completing the race in 87 days. Together, these women contributed to changing the image of sailingproving that the Vendée Globe is an adventure where talent and determination take precedence.
Violette Dorange, the youngest who dreams of distant horizons
Among the six women involved in this 10th edition, Violette Dorange stands out for her youth and her ambition. At only 23 years old, this native of Charente becomes the youngest skipper to get involved in this unique adventure. This Sunday, November 10, 2024, she set sail aboard the “DeVenir”, the former boat of Jean Le Cam, legendary figure in the Vendée Globe. This sailboat will accompany him on his journey around the world. But Violette is not at her first crossing: a sailor since childhood, she started in Optimist and has continued to climb the ranks.
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Driven by her passion, Violette Dorange sees the Vendée Globe as much more than just a race. Her project, “DeVenir”, has a strong social dimension, since it supports the Apprentis d'Auteuil Foundation, of which she is the godmother. Through this, Violette hopes to inspire young people in difficulty and support them on their journey. By tackling the Vendée Globe, Violette Dorange is making her dream come true while bringing a glimmer of hope to those who are still finding their way.
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