THE STORY
During the 2016–2017 Vendée Globe, several skippers faced mast damage requiring solo repairs. Notably, Japanese sailor Kojiro Shiraishi dismasted on December 4, 2016, in the Southern Ocean, and French sailor Tanguy de Lamotte retired after mast damage on December 19, 2016. These incidents highlight the risks of solo repairs in remote ocean conditions.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
Vendée Globe fleet
WHY IT MATTERS
Solo mast repairs in the Vendée Globe underscore the inherent dangers of solo ocean racing, emphasizing the need for robust safety measures and thorough preparation.