Conrad Colman, 41, New Zealander
Co-skipper from Cartagena to Boka Bay
2 Vendée Globe – Winner of the 2012 Global Ocean Race – 2 Route du Rhum – 1 Mini Transat
Conrad Colman grew up to the rhythm of wind and waves. Born in New Zealand, he discovered sailing in early childhood and honed his skills through local regattas. But it was in France—on the docks of offshore racing—that he made a name for himself as one of the most committed sailors of his generation.
In 2016, he set off on his first Vendée Globe aboard Foresight Natural Energy, with a bold challenge: to complete the solo, non-stop round-the-world race without using any fossil fuels. Challenge accepted—and completed. Despite a major setback—his mast broke just 700 miles from the finish—he crossed the line under jury rig, becoming the first skipper ever to achieve such a feat.
Driven by his deep belief that performance and sustainability can go hand in hand, the "Crazy Kiwi" repeated the challenge in 2024, successfully completing his second Vendée Globe once again without relying on fossil fuels.
Photo © Vincent Curutchet / Vendée Globe