Poole Harbour Commissioners were proud to bid farewell to Pip Hare on Monday 14 October at 11:00 as she set sail for France in preparation for the prestigious Vendée Globe 2024.
As one of the most challenging and renowned events in the sailing world, the Vendée Globe will see Pip take on a monumental solo journey, circling the globe without stops, assistance, or crew.
Unpredictable conditions
The race, which starts on 10 November 2024 from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France, is known as the “Everest of the Seas.” It covers more than 24,000 nautical miles and pushes sailors to the limits of their endurance, skill, and resilience.
Facing unpredictable weather conditions, towering waves, and long periods of isolation, competitors sail through some of the world’s most treacherous oceans, from the Atlantic to the Southern Ocean and back.
Vendée Globe
Vendée Globe is regarded as the ultimate test in solo ocean racing, demanding not only expert navigation
The Vendée Globe is widely regarded as the ultimate test in solo ocean racing, demanding not only expert navigation but also immense mental and physical fortitude.
This will be Pip’s second Vendée Globe, having completed the 2020 edition with a stellar performance that earned her recognition and admiration from across the sailing community.
Maritime heritage
“We are incredibly proud to support Pip as she heads to France to begin preparations for the Vendée Globe,” said Captain Brian Murphy, PHC’s CEO. “Her incredible journey is not just a personal triumph but a source of inspiration for us all. Poole has a rich maritime heritage, and seeing one of our own take on the world’s toughest solo race fills us with immense pride.”
As Pip sails to France to prepare for the race in only a few weeks’ time, her supporters will be following her progress every step of the way.