He is assured of making history. For the first time, a Chinese skipper will race on the Vendée Globe. In his own way, Jingkun Xu reflects the internationalisation of solo ocean racing and its ability to reach new populations and to make them dream. But first and foremost he is a sailor at heart.
He, the native of the mountains of Shandong province, in the East of China, who only saw the sea at the age of 12. He believes in his destiny and has a remarkable determination which have carried him through some incredible adventures have made him a unique personality in Asia. A fireworks accident at a young age meant he lost his left arm above the elbow. He lost no time in pursuing a career in sailing. After learning the ropes he raced in the Paralympic Games before going offshore. He competed in the Mini Transat and completed a round-the-world trip with his partner. Now he is ready for his biggest test yet on a boat he knows well.