Arrived safely at Les Sables d’Olonne, home of the fabulous Golden Globe Race 2018.
First impression, this is a great venue, I’m really glad Falmouth and Plymouth failed to host this event !
I’ve chosen well for accommodation, an almost new chalet at Moulin de la Salle, Olonne, a mere 8 minutes drive from the port, complete with mini water park which of course had to be tested including the slides.
Actually I was very happy to test the pool facilities, the temperatures here this week are up and around 35 C (95 F).
I discover, locally this is the GoGoR…
A quick look around the site then into a champagne and vodka reception given by the Russian entrants. I find all the Russians Romanians and Hungarians to be warm and open people who know their jobs.
After an accidental tour of the town I found parking on the quay, before I could decide on a restaurant I fell in with 3 thirsty Aussies. Thank worked well eventually ending with rum at the restaurant until 2 in the morning.
Someone had moved the camp site, in the dark it took me a while to find it.
Today has been a ‘Skipper’s day with briefings and much activity with supporters on the pontoons.
Tomorrow the world’s press will be descending in strength here, national tv coverage will commence for the next 4 days.
I’m glad I’ve checked I have organised a boat for Sunday.
Tomorrow eve the Aussies are giving a barbie, it will be the last time the Skippers can get together.