Transatlantic Windsurfer Completes 4,100 KM Journey in Record 26 Days
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Man Windsurfs 4,100 Km Across the Atlantic Setting Record Time
On January 5, 2024, Oliver DeFranc, a 55-year-old adventurer from French Guiana, completed an extraordinary 4,100-kilometer solo windsurfing journey across the Atlantic. Starting from Senegal, he reached French Guiana in just 26 days and 8 hours, smashing the previous record by over 11 days.
Inspired by a Legend
DeFranc’s feat was inspired by Christian Marty, the first person to windsurf across the Atlantic in 1982. As a teenager, DeFranc witnessed Marty’s historic arrival in Kourou, sparking a lifelong passion for windsurfing and a dream to replicate his hero’s journey. For context, Marty completed the journey in 37 days and 16 hours.
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Overcoming Challenges
Beginning on December 10, 2023, DeFranc faced immense physical and mental challenges. He slept in short bursts using a stabilizing tube around his board and battled tendonitis, cramps, and exhaustion. Unlike Marty, he was supported by a safety crew on a catamaran, who provided food and gear daily. Even with decades of windsurfing experience, the journey pushed his limits.
A Dream Fulfilled
DeFranc’s arrival in Kourou was met with cheers from friends, classmates, and Jerome Marty, Christian Marty’s son. “I realized my 40-year dream,” DeFranc said. “It’s priceless. Windsurfing for me is over.”
This record-breaking journey honors Christian Marty’s legacy and showcases the resilience of the human spirit, an inspiration to adventurers around the world.
