| French sailor and traveler, yachtsman Date of Birth: 24.07.1931 Country: France |
Éric Marcel Guy Tabarly was born on November 24, 1931, in Nantes, France. His family had a long maritime tradition, which instilled in him a passion for sailing from a young age.
In 1938, Tabarly's father acquired the yacht 'Pen Duick' ('Blue Tit'), a vessel with a rich history dating back to 1898. At the age of seven, Tabarly first set foot on 'Pen Duick,' beginning a lifelong connection with the yacht. During World War II, the boat lay neglected in the mud. Despite his father's lack of interest in repairing it, Tabarly's determination to restore 'Pen Duick' burned brightly.
Following in his family's footsteps, Tabarly became a naval officer. In the mid-1950s, he purchased 'Pen Duick' as its 15th and final owner. Over two years, he meticulously restored the yacht, replacing the deck, refurbishing the hull, and using fiberglass for the first time in shipbuilding.
In 1964, Tabarly won the single-handed Transatlantic race, earning him the prestigious Order of the Legion of Honour. This triumph marked the beginning of his impressive string of victories in regattas throughout the 1960s and 1970s.
Beyond his competitive achievements, Tabarly became instrumental in popularizing sailing in France. His victories and records in single-handed races, including the Pacific Race and the Transatlantic Race, inspired a new wave of interest in the sport.
On June 12, 1998, Tabarly and four companions perished in the Irish Sea aboard 'Pen Duick.' At 66 years old, he was knocked overboard by the boom and drowned despite the efforts of his crewmates.
Éric Tabarly was a legendary figure in French sailing, known for his love of adventure, his skilled seamanship, and his role in transforming sailing into a popular sport. He remains an inspiration to countless sailors and adventurers worldwide.