Vendee Globe - Spirit of Yukoh safely in Cape Town

by Vendee Globe on 8 Dec 2016 Japanese skipper Kojiro Shiraishi who had to abandon the Vendee Globe when the top part of his mast broke off has safely arrived in Cape Town. Shiraishi arrived at 1055 UTC.

When he arrived he said:

'I am sorry for having you worry about me and my boat. Today on December 7th, Spirit of Yukoh and I arrived safely in Cape Town. Thank you to everyone for the great support. My first Vendée Globe challenge has just ended today. I have been very fortunate to have a good team, a good boat, good sponsors, and great supporters. We had a wonderful start. This year, I was the first ever Japanese and Asian to challenge the Vendée Globe. Although I could not finish the race, I really had great experience up until today. I want to say that it was a good race for me. I had a great experience, and most importantly I made many new friends both in Japan and in France.

I’m thankful to all the skippers who has accepted me in this offshore sailing community. This is not the end of my adventure. I was the first ever Japanese and Asian to take the start of the Vendée Globe this year. Next time my goal is to be the first Japanese and Asian to finish the Vendée Globe. I hope to have your strong support again. It has been grateful for me. I appreciate all your help.'

'Thank you from the bottom of my heart.'

And by nearby Simonstown, to the south east of the city, Romain Attanasio arrived around 1800hrs TU this evening where he plans to make repairs to his rudders, unassisted within the race rules.