Qualified for the next Vendée Globe which will celebrate its tenth edition this fall, Violette Dorange throws a bottle into the sea. At 22 years old, the sailor from Charente-Maritime dreams of taking the start of the legendary solo sailing trip around the world which will start from Les Sables-d’Olonne on Sunday November 10, 2024.
Noticed on the Mini-Transat or the Solitaire du Figaro, Violette Dorange nevertheless stumbles upon a pitfall: “I’m missing half the budget, or nearly 800,000 euros…” Supported – among others – by around a hundred franchisees from the McDonald’s brand, the youngest in the Vendée Globe is currently struggling to convince new sponsors. “I spend 90% of my time there, it puts pressure on… I also have to train, follow weather training and ensure technical preparation. But I am hopeful and we have a lot of assets,” explains the sailor.
Supported by Jean Le Cam
Called “Becoming”, her project aims to support young people from the Apprentis d’Auteuil foundation of which she is the godmother. “Investing in Violette is a good deal. She has the will, the sincerity and an extraordinary experience for her age. She will get through it,” said skipper Jean Le Cam, her mentor. Violette Dorange benefits from the advice of the Finisterian and acquired her vessel last year. “One of the best drift boats in the fleet,” insists the sailor who is just waiting for one thing: to set sail. “I’ve been dreaming of this adventure for 4 years… I’m not going to win but I’m aiming for the podium of the old boats,” she already anticipates.
