Electrifying pace across the Indian Ocean
Dalin’s progress has been spurred by a powerful low-pressure system, driving him to electrifying speeds. The leader’s mastery of these volatile conditions has brought the race back in line with historic benchmarks, following a sluggish start in the North Atlantic. Yet, with a challenging series of gybes ahead, Dalin’s margin for error is razor-thin.
Herculean effort by Simon
In second place, Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) is putting on a show of endurance and determination. Forced to execute a series of grueling gybes near the Antarctic Exclusion Zone, Simon has endured hours of physically demanding work. Each gybe requires around 40 minutes of intense effort, with Simon battling 27-30 knot winds and towering waves. His perseverance has kept him within striking distance of Dalin while showcasing the unrelenting spirit of the Vendée Globe.
Consistent strategy from Goodchild
Meanwhile, Briton Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) has climbed into sixth place with a steady and composed approach. After weathering some of the toughest conditions of his solo sailing career, Goodchild is focusing on consistency rather than chasing immediate gains.
“I am just sailing my own race,” Goodchild reflected. “Sometimes I gain miles, sometimes I lose them, but the goal is to stay in harmony with the boat and myself.”
His philosophy of balance and patience is paying dividends as he closes in on Jérémie Beyou (Charal) in fifth.
Nicolas Lunven rues tactical gamble
Not every skipper has enjoyed smooth sailing. Nicolas Lunven (Holcim – PRB) gambled on a northerly route to avoid a fierce depression earlier in the week. However, this decision backfired as unforeseen calms and stormy conditions slowed his progress. Lunven expressed his frustration:
“This northerly route was supposed to be better than this. We really didn’t get what we expected… An anticyclone swelled and ate us up.”
The result? Goodchild overtook him, while the gap to the leaders widened.
Jean le cam: ageless brilliance
Further north, veteran Jean Le Cam (Tout commence en Finistère-Armor lux) continues to defy age and expectations. Despite battling heavy weather that damaged his sails, the 65-year-old skipper is leading the non-foiling pack and making impressive speeds of over 20 knots. With his steady hand and tactical prowess, Le Cam exemplifies the experience and grit that make the Vendée Globe legendary.
The road ahead
As the fleet tackles the relentless conditions of the Southern Ocean, each skipper is walking a tightrope between performance and self-preservation. Dalin’s record bid at Cape Leeuwin may set the tone for the next chapter of this extraordinary race. For now, all eyes remain on the leader as the clock ticks toward Monday morning.
Stay tuned for updates as the Vendée Globe continues to deliver high drama and exceptional feats of human endurance.
