Who is the first French female sailor to win the Route du Rhum?

Florence Arthaud was the first French sailor to win the Route du Rhum, the prestigious solo transatlantic race. She achieved this feat in 1990. Nicknamed the “Little Bride of the Atlantic”, Florence Arthaud left her mark on the history of sailing through her determination and courage.

The Route du Rhum is a legendary race that links Saint-Malo in France to Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe. In 1990, Arthaud, aboard her trimaran Pierre 1er, completed the race in 14 days, 10 hours and 8 minutes, setting the event record. Her victory was not only a sporting feat, it also broke down gender barriers in the world of sailing, inspiring many women to pursue a career in this field.

Florence Arthaud was known for her free and adventurous spirit. Her career was marked by many challenges at sea, but also by an unshakeable passion for sailing. By winning the Route du Rhum, she proved that women could excel in sports traditionally dominated by men.

Florence Arthaud’s victory in 1990 remains a memorable page in French maritime history. She left a lasting legacy in the world of sailing, and continues to be an emblematic figure for male and female sailors the world over.