Weathering the southern ocean
The Southern Ocean, with its relentless low-pressure systems, sets the stage for constant change. Racing eastward, skippers must contend with winds from the west and unpredictable transitions in weather. This interplay creates opportunities for trailing boats to catch up, only for the leaders to escape into fresh breezes—a cycle of compression and release that shapes the race.
Yoann Richomme (PAPREC-ARKÉA) and Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance) have embodied this dynamic. Richomme’s lead of 110 miles evaporated in just 24 hours as he slowed through a high-pressure zone, allowing Dalin to close the gap. However, by this afternoon, Richomme was charging ahead once again, riding the new easterly breeze at twice Dalin’s speed.
A warming reprieve
As the fleet edges closer to Rio de Janeiro, the harshness of the Southern Ocean gives way to warmer climes. For the leaders, this means shedding layers and embracing t-shirt weather—a welcome change after weeks of battling the frigid south. The weather systems ahead, however, remain unpredictable, ensuring that no lead is ever secure.
The challenge of chasing
Trailing the leaders, Damien Seguin (Groupe Apicil) reflects on the challenges of playing catch-up.
“In all situations, whether at the front, in the middle or at the back of the fleet, it is definitely not ideal to be behind because the advantage always goes to those who lead the way,” says Seguin.
The double Paralympic champion, who excelled in the previous edition, now faces the reality of the fleet’s elastic dynamics. Weather forecasts rarely align with reality, creating hurdles that demand constant vigilance and adaptation.
Rounding cape horn
For Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE), the elastic has stretched in his favour. With a 100-mile lead over his rivals, Ruyant is set to round Cape Horn in fourth place. Yet, the unpredictability of the race remains top of mind for all competitors, as gains can be quickly lost in the accordion effect of fleet racing.
In third place, Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) hopes to maintain his position as he navigates east of the Falklands. Despite a comfortable margin over those behind him, Simon remains cautious.
“Nothing is done yet. I wanted to get to Cape Horn in good shape, which I am, and now I just have to do my best and we will see,” he shared.
The final stretch
As the Vendée Globe fleet inches closer to its ultimate destination, the elastic effect will undoubtedly continue to test the skippers’ mettle. From the leaders’ battle to the perseverance of those further back, every mile is a story of resilience, strategy, and adaptability.
This race reminds us that in offshore sailing, nothing is guaranteed. The elastic may stretch, but it can also snap, leaving sailors to navigate not only the elements but also the unpredictable ebbs and flows of fortune.
