1989–1990 Vendée Globe

The inaugural Vendée Globe set off from Les Sables d'Olonne on 26 November 1989. Frenchman, Titouan Lamazou, sailing Ecureuil d'Aquitaine II, won the race with a time of 109 days.[1]

Philippe Jeantot, Vendée Globe founder, had problems with breakdowns, and then unfavorable winds, which held him back from the race lead.[2] Philippe Poupon's ketch Fleury Michon X capsized in the Southern Ocean; and Poupon was rescued by Loïck Peyron, who finally finished second, in what was generally a successful first run of the race.[3] Mike Plant, the lone American in the race, disqualified himself after receiving minor assistance near Campbell Island, New Zealand after a $5 rigging part on his sloop, Duracell, was damaged in the Pacific Ocean. Plant lost the race, but to the admiring French, he emerged a real hero after repairing the rigging and finishing the course as an unofficial competitor in 135 days, a new American single-handed circumnavigation record.[4]

Race Director for the first edition was Denis Horeau he went onto run further editions of the race.[5]

• Philippe Poupon boat was struck by a waive and ended up lying heeled at 90 degrees. Loïck Peyron in a remarkable bit of seamanshup took the boat in tow and, after Philippe Poupon detached the mast the boat right itself. A filmed of the event can be seen here.[13]
• Jean-Yves Terlain dismasted south of Cape Town.
• Guy Bernardin is forced to give up due to a dental problem and makes a stopover in Australia

• Official Vendée Globe Website
• Official Vendée Globe YouTube Channel