World · Singapore Bureau
French sailor Barrier makes history in gruelling transatlantic race
Alexia Barrier has become the first woman to finish the Route du Rhum in the Ultim class, crossing the finish line in fifth place after an arduous transatlantic voyage. The punishing conditions forced three of the eight competing giant trimarans to withdraw from the competition.
LSN Singapore ·
PARIS — France's Alexia Barrier scripted a milestone in ocean racing on Wednesday by becoming the first woman to complete the Route du Rhum in the Ultim class, the competition's most demanding category for multi-hulled vessels.
Barrier crossed the finish line in fifth position overall in the prestigious transatlantic race, which tests both the endurance of competitors and the capabilities of some of the world's most advanced sailing trimarans. Her achievement underscores the growing participation of women in elite competitive sailing.
The Route du Rhum proved particularly challenging this year, with the extreme conditions of the open Atlantic taking a toll on participants. Three of the eight Ultim class trimarans competing in the race were forced to retire, highlighting the hazardous nature of the event.
The Route du Rhum, which runs between France and Guadeloupe in the Caribbean, is considered one of sailing's most prestigious solo races. The Ultim class features cutting-edge racing yachts capable of reaching exceptional speeds, making success in the category a coveted achievement among competitive sailors worldwide.