Zen Again 71

 

A figurative 'Gone Fishing' sign hangs in the window, of Les Sables d'Olonne. For some, its meaning is literal: Each morning, a stream of small boats leaves harbour. To bob away the day, peaceably at sea, with a couple of rods over the side. Plus, perhaps, a speculative pot or two down, in a secret spot.

For others, that sign is metaphorical: There are reminders, around the port, of the roaring crowds, which line the quaysides, to cheer the Vendee Globe skippers, at the start and finish, of the solo around the world race, which has put this town on the map. As the epicentre of solo offshore racing. But those tumultuos scenes ended in February. Not to be repeated, until the next start, in November 2028. There is time to unwind. Slow the pace. Enjoy a more relaxed style of sailing.

On the famous Vendee Globe pontoon, there is only one race ready, competitive IMOCA, in town. Benjamin Dutreux's boat (which started life as Alex Thomson's Hugo Boss). Benj, when not racing, runs the boatyard in Bourgenay, five miles along the coast.

As a 'local lad,' renowned for his sociable and obliging disposition, his welcome home was particularly fulsome. Young and old donning orange 'Benj-beards,' to honour the ginger whiskers, which he had sprouted, during his seventy seven day circumnavigation. (Apologies for pixelated picture)

Further on, lies a familiar boat. The Class40 One Vision. Last seen in Le Havre. Where she provided the inspiration, for Stargazer's DIY dyneema backstay (See Zen Again 26).

Picture Credits

Benjamin Dutreux Vendee Globe finish screenshot. Courtesy of VendeeGlobe.org YouTube livestream