M Roland Jourdain

Roland Jourdain is a French offshore racing veteran with a career spanning over three decades in solo and crewed ocean races. Born on April 28, 1964, in Quimper, Brittany, he is affectionately known as "Bilou" in the sailing community. Jourdain participated in multiple Vendée Globe editions and achieved his best result in 2000–2001, finishing third behind Michel Desjoyeaux and Ellen MacArthur. His 2008 campaign ended prematurely due to structural failure, but he had been among the frontrunners, confirming his status as a consistent and tactical skipper. He also won the Route du Rhum twice in the IMOCA class (2006 and 2010), showcasing his mastery of solo transatlantic sailing. Known for his friendly demeanor and sharp racing intellect, Jourdain later founded *Kaïros*, an ocean racing and eco-innovation company aimed at promoting sustainable practices in sailing and boat design. His legacy blends performance, human values, and ecological consciousness—a true ambassador of the sport’s evolving role in environmental awareness.