Chinese Paralympian aims to become country’s first sailor to complete the Vendee Globe round the world solo race
- Xu Jingkun lost his arm when he was 12, and has since become a world class sailor, proving naysayers wrong with every adventure
- The Paralympian will become the first Chinese sailor to enter in the Route du Rhum, as he continues his journey to the Vendee Globe
Sailor Xu Jingkun has made a habit of defying expectations ever since he lost part of his left arm as a 12-year-old.
The Chinese Paralympian has been breaking barriers on land and sea ever since and just two years after completing a mammoth round-the-world journey, he’s now preparing for his greatest challenge yet.
In November Xu will become the first Chinese athlete to compete in the Route du Rhum in the IMOCA class between Saint Malo in France and Pointe-à-Pitre in the Caribbean. Route du Rhum will serve as a stepping stone to Vendee Globe, the legendary solo race around the world that happens just once every four years.
Sailing a 60ft boat solo is a new and exciting challenge, but Xu said he is mentally strong and experienced to deal with the challenges.
“When I lost my arm the neighbours said ‘this boy’s life is finished’,” Xu said. “But I did not believe them, I always think of a life with other possibilities. After I lost my left arm, I still have my legs, so I ran a lot. And when I ran, I felt that I am complete, the same as others.”
Xu grew up in rural China and lost his forearm in a fireworks accident during the Spring Festival. He had a knack for running and with the Paralympics coming to China in 2008 was selected to represent Shandong Province, a pivotal moment that catapulted Xu into the realm of elite sport.
After years of training, Xu made the cut as just one of six sailors. At 19, he was the youngest too.