(ECNS) -- Xu Jingkun, known as the "one-armed skipper" from Qingdao, Shandong Province, finished the 2024-2025 Vendee Globe on Tuesday after 99 days and 19 hours, becoming the first Chinese sailor to finish the race and the 100th skipper in the history of the tournament to achieve this feat.
"There were countless difficult moments," Xu recalled. "Five days before reaching the finish line, the boat's electrical system failed. It was the first time I thought about withdrawing, especially so close to the end. It happened and I had to push through," he said.
The Vendee Globe was founded in 1989 and is considered the "Qomolangma of ocean racing." Held every four years, the race spans over 24,000 nautical miles. Competitors must navigate solo, without stopping or external assistance, and must confront extreme weather, physical exhaustion, and technical difficulties, making it one of the world’s toughest sport events.
A total of 40 competitors participated in the event, among whom six withdrew due to various challenges. Xu was the 30th sailor to cross the finish line.
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