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Ari Huusela // First Finn to Finish the Vendée Globe
January 20, 2026 · 1h 16m · 218 views · Seiland
What this video covers
Ari Huusela, a commercial airline pilot and aircraft mechanic, became the first Nordic skipper to complete the Vendée Globe during the 2020–2021 edition.3:36 Huusela finished the 29,000-nautical-mile solo race in 116 days, prioritizing boat preservation to ensure the vessel remained in sellable condition to cover his loans.19:40 He operated without full insurance, as the high deductible made coverage impractical for his financial situation.21:25 During the race, Huusela faced significant challenges, including 30-to-45-knot winds and massive seas while navigating near the ice limit before rounding Cape Horn.29:36 He maintained a conservative sailing strategy to mitigate risks, drawing on his aviation background to manage mental stress and technical systems.27:05 Huusela credits Alex Thomson for providing mentorship and access to the IMOCA class, which helped launch his campaign after a previous rental project failed when the boat was abandoned at sea.41:04 He emphasizes that the primary goal for any Vendée Globe entrant is simply reaching the start line, as the race can end abruptly due to collisions or equipment failure.38:19
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