Breaking transatlantic sailing record at age 61

French sailor Francis Joyon has stunned sea adventure enthusiasts by breaking his own transatlantic sailing record at the age of 61.

Mr. Joyon with his IDEC. Photo: Challenge and Adventure

In June 2013, Mr. Joyon set a world record for solo sailing across the Atlantic, taking just 5 days, 2 hours and 56 minutes to complete the journey. He was 57 years old at the time.

At the age of over 60, Mr. Joyon still shows his endless passion for yacht racing. On July 6, he started a new trip in New York on his 30-meter IDEC. And after exactly 5 days, 2 hours and 7 minutes, he set foot on Lizard Beach in Cornwall, England, ending his journey across the Atlantic.

Panoramic view of Mr. Joyon's IDEC sailboat. Photo: Sedec

The achievement beat the previous record by 49 minutes. Joyon's record was confirmed by the World Sailing Records Council (WSSRC). The fact that Joyon broke his own record is all the more surprising given that he set out in less than ideal weather.

Not long ago, Mr. Joyon also impressed with a trip around the world in just 40 days with 4 other sailors.

According to TTO