After rounding Cape Horn in quick succession yesterday the second group in the Vendée Globe, the peloton, have broken up slightly as they negotiate an upwind phase in light winds caused by a cell of high pressure. From deep ocean racing mode, dealing with the constant stress of the Southern Ocean, this group are suddenly into regatta mode, racing almost boat on boat as they try to climb out of the zone of light airs.
As he has proven happy to do, and having profited previously from making his own choices, Briton Sam Goodchild (VULNERABLE) has made the strategic decision to pass through the Le Maire Strait, to the west of Staten Island to try and find the better breeze to the west, closer to the coast than his rivals. Through today he seems to have profited and it may be tomorrow that he finds out how much he has at least closed a lot of the gap to Jérémie Beyou (Charal) and Nico Lunven (HOLCIM PRB) who are fifth and sixth.
Thomas Ruyant (VULNERABLE) and Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) look increasingly secure in fourth and third. With the chasing pack behind Ruyant having 24 hours in light winds he has gained many miles on them whilst the Les Sables d’Olonne skipper Simion has been the fastest today, fully capitalising on being on starboard gybe and making full speed on his good, working foil.
@VendeeGlobe
#VG2024
Interested in seeing more Offshore News?
