20 years of remembering a passionate sailor
On 18 May 2026, it will be twenty years since Hans Horrevoets lost his life during the Volvo Ocean Race. At Jachthaven Biesbosch in Drimmelen, we commemorate this man who lived for the sea. The 300-metre-long quay in our marina has borne his name since 2011 as a tribute.
A life in the wind and waves
Hans was born in Made on 26 April 1974. From a young age, the Biesbosch was his playground and second home. He grew up amongst boats and developed a passion for sailing.
In 1997/1998, at the age of 22, he became the youngest competitor in the Whitbread Round the World Race. He later sailed successfully as a trimmer and skipper on various boats. He won races such as the Fastnet, Cowes Week and Gotland Runt. He also ran his own company, Yacht Invest, in Terheijden.
In 2006, he was part of the crew of ABN AMRO TWO. During the seventh leg, he went overboard on the night of 18 May. It happened in rough conditions when the boat plunged into a wave. Despite an impressive rescue attempt, resuscitation efforts came too late. Hans was only 32 years old.
A quay as a tribute
Hans’ bond with Drimmelen and the marina was unbreakable. Following his death, the marina and the local council decided to name the pier after him. On 18 May 2011, the Hans Horrevoets Kade (Quay) was officially unveiled. The quay is not just a mooring point, but a living memorial. Visitors walk along the quay every day without knowing the story behind it.
Commemoration and legacy
Twenty years on, Hans’ spirit lives on in the sailing world. For many years, the Volvo Ocean Race presented the Hans Horrevoets Rookie Award. In Drimmelen, young sailors race on boats bearing his name. Today we reflect on Hans as a father, partner and friend. He was just a minute away from his life jacket when a wave swept him away. He showed that passion can be stronger than fear.
Rest in peace, Hans. The wind still has your back on the quay that bears your name.
Interested in watching the broadcast from 2006? View it here