Since the first edition in 1978, the Route du Rhum has sailed off every four years and has become a tradition in transatlantic solo races.

With the lost sailors, the few seconds only that often part two competitors, the storms, the technological innovations and the outstanding personality of the winners, these 3 000 miles of race became a legend and entered sailing history.

1982: After the success of the first edition (38 competitors), 52 sailors compete, 4 of which only on monohulls. The Argos beacons are on board, offering more security, but also a complete change of race strategies. The winner: Marc Pajot in 18 d 01 h 38 min 00 sec

1986: Philippe Poupon exploses the record, arriving two days ahead of the second on his trimaran in 14 d 15 h 57 min 00 sec

1990: For the first time... a woman and a Guadeloupean The island's son, Claude Bistoquet, unfortunately breaks his ship in front of Capesterre, but his participation makes the Guadeloupeans re-discover sailing. Florence Arthaud is crowned queen of the sea by winning in 14 d 10 h 08 min 28 sec

1994: 25 competitors, among them Claude Bistoquet again.
After 4 days of race he is on the 4th place, but has to give up.

Laurent Bourgnon wins in 14 d 06 h 28 min 29 sec