The much-anticipated finish of the Vendée Globe, one of the world's most grueling sailing races, is set to culminate this weekend as Violette Dorange, the youngest sailor competing at just 23 years old, prepares to arrive at Les Sables-d’Olonne. Having spent nearly 90 days at sea, Dorange’s return is not just about completing the race—it’s about celebrating achievement and forging lasting connections.
Dorange is currently holding the 24th position among the fleet, and estimations indicate she will be docking sometime between the night of February 9 and the morning of February 10, 2025. This information was confirmed by race organizers who stated, "Violette will enter the channel likely on the 10th around midday." Her performance marks her as the youngest participant of this year's Vendée Globe, with dedicated followers eagerly awaiting her return.
Among the most enthusiastic of supporters is Monique Vernoux, Dorange's former caregiver from her childhood. Living quietly in the small village of Pont-l'Abbé-d'Arnoult, Vernoux has remained closely connected to the sailor throughout her life. "I follow her progress religiously! At night, I check her location. My husband jokes around, giving her sailing advice from the couch like he’s some expert," she laughs as she reads updates on her tablet. For Vernoux, Dorange's homecoming is filled with anticipation; photos of the young sailor throughout various stages of her life adorn her walls. "I have kept everything, all our mommy-daughter memories," she reflected with emotion.
Her story is echoed across the village, where family members are also eagerly awaiting Dorange's return. "I can’t wait to hold her and see her triumphant after this incredible adventure," said Arnaud Dorange, Violette's father. He’s been following her progress closely, sharing laughs and stories with her via weekly phone calls during her voyage. Despite the fears of danger at sea, he remains incredibly proud of her achievements and has arranged for three minivans filled with family supporters to witness her arrival, highlighting the strong sense of community surrounding Dorange's sailing odyssey.
The Vendée Globe has always been about more than racing; it’s about resilience, personal growth, and community support. "This race is not just physical endurance; it's also about mental fortitude," he said, shedding light on the experience his daughter has undergone. From mechanical failures to battling fierce weather, every moment adds to the complexity of the race, yet Dorange has navigated them all skillfully.
On the water, the competitive spirit is palpable. Other racers, like Louis Duc, have faced their own trials, including the breaking of his boat's left rudder, which could have jeopardized his run for the finish. Despite such setbacks, Duc’s tenacity reflects the determination characteristic of the Vendée Globe sailors.
While Dorange has contested challenging waters, she has also been buoyed by moments of joy and teamwork. A recent highlight was the sighting of her boat by former Vendée Globe victor Charlie Dalin. Approaching her Imoca, Dalin took to the skies for aerial shots, adding to the race's camaraderie and shared emotions forged through competition. It’s moments like these—instances of mutual respect among sailors—that help to bolster spirits, especially during the loneliest of hours at sea.
At home, the excitement builds as cheers along the coastline grow nearer to fruition. Anticipation for her podium presentation is high; it promises to be filled with tears of joy and laughter as her family and fans begin to gather. Among the emotional connections forged during these months, Vernoux reminisces about the affection shared. "I even plan to gift her the doll she used to play with as a child—I just want her to feel at home when she returns. These little gestures mean so much," she said.
Once Dorange passes the finish line, she’ll have little time to rest. Schedule commitments include media meetings and appearances, scheduled to continue the following day with trips to Paris for television interviews. There’s little doubt rumors of her esteemed sailing prowess have echoed far beyond the shores of their quiet village to the broader world.
While the race is legendary for its extreme challenges, it also fuels the dreams and aspirations of many. For Violette Dorange, this endeavor serves as both completion and beginning—showcasing her determination not only to set sail for herself but to inspire generations to come. Yet as the hours wind down to her arrival, those waiting on the shore will breathe collective sighs of relief, pride, and joy.
With the Vendée Globe series rich with stories of tenacity, community bonds, and the passion for sailing, Violette Dorange’s story adds another chapter to this cherished narrative. Her return signifies not just the end of her voyage but the continuation of dreams spun from the threads of adventure across the ocean.