Pip Hare, the British sailor who faced a devastating setback during the renowned Vendée Globe race, has docked her yacht, Medallia, in Melbourne following the collapse of her mast. The incident occurred on December 16, 2024, roughly 1400 kilometers south of Australia, and brought her participation in the fiercely competitive solo yacht race to an abrupt halt.
Hare was competing in one of the world’s most grueling maritime challenges, which commenced on November 10, 2024, from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France. At 37 days and nearly halfway through her voyage, she encountered rough weather as she sailed through the harsh conditions of the Southern Ocean. "When my yacht crested the wave, I felt horror and disappointment as the mast broke and fell over the side," Hare recalled. Despite initially feeling devastated, the experienced sailor quickly shifted to crisis mode. Her immediate concern was ensuring the integrity of Medallia, double-checking for any holes and jury-rigging the sail to keep her afloat.
After the incident, Hare navigated toward safety and was able to make it to Melbourne, where she was greeted by supportive locals determined to assist her during this difficult time. Neville Rose, among the four members of the Ocean Racing Club of Victoria, was instrumental in her safe arrival. The group motored to Hare’s location from Apollo Bay, about 200 kilometers away, after learning she was offshore.
When Hare reached Port Phillip Heads, members of the sailing community ushered her vessel through the challenging waters, providing assistance with port, customs, and quarantine procedures. "It’s been incredible," she said, expressing gratitude for the warm support from the community. "I was really humbled because nobody knows me from Adam. Why should anybody help me? Yet, they’ve all chosen to do this. It’s truly heartwarming to witness the spirit of the Melbourne community." The welcoming included giving Hare essentials like fuel, fresh fruit, and tea as she made her way to Docklands. Her arrival was not just about reaching the harbor; it was marked by the presence of about 20 pleasure boats supporting her, with hundreds gathering to witness her docking at Melbourne City Marina.
Hare’s mishap with the mast was deemed mere bad luck by many, including Rose, who admired her skill and resilience. “Pip had rotten luck with the mast breaking but kept her composure to sail to Victoria after the accident. She’s extraordinary,” Rose noted. Despite her unfortunate circumstances, Hare remains undeterred and is already planning her return to the Vendée Globe race, expressing her dedication to sailing. "This is my chosen sport. I’ve dedicated my life to it and I want to be the best I can," she stated, highlighting the importance of the event to her. This marks Hare's second attempt at the Vendée Globe; during her 2020-21 race, she finished 19th and became only the eighth woman to do so.
Local yachting enthusiasts, like Clare McAuliffe and her son, Zac Sayle, came to meet Hare, reflecting the admiration and respect she inspired within the community. McAuliffe praised her courage, stating, "Hare has shown incredible resilience and skill sailing to Victoria after losing her mast. I wasn’t scared for her knowing the competence of sailors like her who undertake these global challenges." Hare, now planning to ship Medallia back to the UK and replace the mast, continues to look forward to future races.
The Vendée Globe is renowned for its difficulties and dangers, being the world’s premier solo round-the-world yacht race. While Hare's dreams of victory were dashed this time, her spirit remains buoyant as she awaits new opportunities on the horizon.