At just 25 years old, James Harayda, skipper of Gentoo Sailing Team is officially a candidate for the 2024 Vendée Globe.
Considered as the ultimate test of man and machine, the Vendée Globe is a gruelling three-month race that takes sailors alone, non-stop, and unassisted around the world. It is the pinnacle of short handed ocean racing, starting and finishing in Les Sables-d'Olonne, France, the race takes sailors on a course that covers over 24,000 nautical miles, through some of the planet's most challenging and unforgiving waters. The race is guaranteed to push skippers and their IMOCA class boats beyond the absolute limits.
The IMOCA Globe Series and Vendée Globe race has gone from strength to strength, with more teams than ever taking to the start, and a tremendous growth in commercial opportunities for partners and teams alike. Gentoo Sailing Team offers the perfect platform for brand awareness, research and development, and the ability to align with a sporting entity that can connect with fans on an emotional level with a purpose driven cause.
James’s passion for sailing was born in Singapore as a child, spending weekends exploring and racing around the tropical island in various dinghies and keelboats. Fast forward 12 years and James has competed in some of the worlds largest offshore races, including a tremendous 14th place in his first solo IMOCA transatlantic race, the 2022 Route du Rhum. James also has two British Double Handed National Championship titles to his name.
James expressed his excitement on receiving the news through from the Vendée Globe office:
"We’re delighted to be at this stage where we are an official candidate for the 2024 Vendée Globe. It really is a dream coming true for me. We’ve made amazing progress as a team and firmly believe we are on-track to achieve our goals, from a sporting, environmental, and commercial perspective.”
The team would like to thank our sponsors and partners for their support in getting the team to this point. We cannot wait to continue this journey into the future - this race will promise a tale of determination and adventure captivating enthusiasts far and wide!
If you would like to join our journey and be a part of this record breaking edition of the Vendée Globe, now is the time to get in touch and secure your place onboard!
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