A quick hug and a kiss on the cheek for each of his two daughters. That was Nandor Fa, the Hungarian skipper’s final action before heading out of the harbour entrance channel. Spirit of Hungary cast off from the pontoon under the applause of the crowds shouting ‘Good luck’ to him. The IMOCA set off at 3 knots. Nandor Fa waved his arms enthusiastically with a beaming smile on his face.

Just before leaving the harbour, he passed in front of Vincent Riou’s fan club, who cheered him enthusiastically. That is the spirit of the Vendée Globe: everyone encourages each other. Tens of thousands of spectators cheered as Spirit of Hungary made her way out, creating an atmosphere worthy of a Cup Final. Horns, whistles, cheers, shouts. The atmosphere was alive adding to this magic moment. Nandor Fa lapped it up. Arms waving furiously, smiling all the time. As we saw with other competitors this an emotionally charged moment.