British sailor Sam Goodchild places 9th in the Vendée Globe, a prestigious solo around-the-world yacht race, making him the top-ranking British competitor.
Sam Goodchild, a 35-year-old British sailor, has made a name for himself in the world of offshore racing, particularly in the IMOCA class. His latest achievement is an impressive 9th place finish in the 2025 Vendée Globe, a solo round-the-world race.
Goodchild's journey to the Vendée Globe began with his rapid progression through the offshore racing ranks. Prior to the event, he was crowned the IMOCA Globe Series Champion, demonstrating his solid foundation of experience in the IMOCA class and long offshore races.
One of Goodchild's standout performances was his leadership role on the MACIF Santé Prévoyance IMOCA, which he steered to victory in the Pom'potes Challenge, a competitive warm-up race with strong conditions and top IMOCA competitors. This confirmed his legitimacy as a skipper of a world-class IMOCA 60 boat.
Throughout the race, Goodchild's teamwork skills and adaptability shone. He demonstrated these qualities in The Ocean Race Europe, where he worked fluidly within a small professional crew setting, creating effective watch patterns based on feel and team support rather than rigid schedules.
Goodchild's performances in the lead-up to the Vendée Globe also showed his ability to handle difficult conditions with variable winds and challenging tidal currents. Adaptability to changing conditions is key for success in a grueling 3+ month solo race.
Despite a setback during a 54-knot storm, when Goodchild's main sail split, causing him to lose ground, he made substantial repairs to his sail, allowing him to continue and finish within the top 10.
The Vendée Globe was a unique two-boat campaign for Goodchild, who sailed alongside Thomas Ruyant. The duo finished 7th and 9th respectively in the race. Goodchild's boat, Vulnerable, is a previous generation IMOCA.
Goodchild joined the IMOCA class two years ago, having previously skippered a competitive Multi 50 campaign and crewed for Ultim trimarans such as Sodebo. He also spent time in Grenada during his childhood, living aboard a cruising yacht with his family.
The race was won by Charlie Dalin from France, with Goodchild finishing 11 days, six hours, and 38 minutes behind. Despite this, Goodchild's strong finish has cemented him as a strong British candidate for the 2028 Vendée Globe.
During the race, Goodchild was involved in a close duel with Jérémie Beyou off the coast of Brazil. As the fleet rounded the Cape of Good Hope, Goodchild held an impressive top five position.
Goodchild's journey in offshore racing began at the Artemis Offshore Academy, and his impressive debut in the Vendée Globe is a testament to his rapid skill development, proven leadership in IMOCA racing, teamwork experience, and adaptability to offshore conditions.
sports: Goodchild's impressive 9th place finish in the 2025 Vendée Globe, a solo round-the-world race, showcases his prowess in the world of offshore racing, particularly in sports like sailing.
offshore racing: Goodchild's journey in offshore racing began at the Artemis Offshore Academy, and his impressive debut in the Vendée Globe is a testament to his rapid skill development, proven leadership in IMOCA racing, teamwork experience, and adaptability to offshore conditions, all aspects crucial in sports like offshore racing.
