First Dutch skipper to take part in the Vendée Globe
by Vendee Globe media 21 Oct 2016 17:28 BST
21 October 2016
Pieter Heerema sailing in No Way Back © Jacques Vapillon / No Way Back
Pieter Heerema, unknown in the offshore solo sailing world, is the first Dutch sailor to take part in the Vendée Globe, whose 8th edition will start on November 6th from Les Sables d'Olonne. Two weeks before the start of this non-stop solo round the world race without assistance, we introduce to you this a-typical IMOCA sailor.
At the age of 65, Pieter Heerema who is a captain of industry in offshore construction, enters the world of solo racing. A qualified and experienced sailor and racer in Holland and internationally, he has been sailing competitively since childhood. After his first tacks in dinghies, Pieter carried on sailing on various types of boats and competed in numerous events.
He participates in the international Dragon circuit, taking part in many international series of which he has won several with his crew. In 2009 he joined the prestigious RC44 circuit, sailing alongside sailors of the America's Cup and Olympic sailing. Aboard his RC44 "No Way Back", he won the championship that same year.
Curious to test every form of sailing offered by this sport, Pieter Heerema moved to solo racing in 2015, with the desire to participate in the Vendée Globe. After a year of getting to know and taming his IMOCA, Pieter is now ready to align her on the starting line of the 8th edition.
To take part in this extraordinary event, the Dutch navigator met all the organizers' obligations: boat complying to regulations, qualification and endorsed other certificates. 20 days away from departure, everything is operational and the monohull "No Way Back" is now moored and ready in Port Olona.
On November 6th, Pieter will get off on the 24,393 theoretical miles of the race with one goal in mind: finish this non-stop solo round the world race without assistance.
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