(January 6, 2025; Day 58) – In less than 10 days, the winner of the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe will be known. Charlie Dalin (MACIF Santé Prévoyance, 1st), runner-up in 2020-21, maintains a slight lead over Yoann Richomme (PAPREC ARKÉA, 2nd). Dalin, having yesterday crossed the equator, is the first to have extricated himself from the doldrums, where his nearest pursuer is currently progressing.
While the gap between the two had reduced (from 130 miles yesterday to 78 miles this morning), Vendée Globe weather consultant Christian Dumard anticipates that Dalin will see the margin increase today.
“The doldrums always look easier on the map than at sea,” noted Dalin. ““The race will be played out on a set of parameters: the weather situation, the condition of the boat, traffic management, the skippers’ inspiration to make the right choices.
“It’s quite intense, the pressure is constant but that’s part of the game. All the sailors who come to the Vendée Globe with sporting ambitions would dream of being in our shoes. I’m really enjoying it, I’m more detached and under less pressure than four years ago. And we mustn’t forget that what we’re doing is just a game!”
Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil), a solid third, is preparing to pass the north-eastern tip of Brazil and pass the doldrums with a route much further west than the leading duo. He is not really threatened by the fight that is taking place between a group of seven boats 1,200 miles further south. In this battle for the “top 10”, most are coming up against a windless zone and all are dealing with strong instability of weather systems.
Race updates – Tracker – Ranking – Facebook
Attrition:
Nov. 15: Maxime Sorel (FRA), V and B – Monbana – Mayenne – ankle injury, mast damage
Dec. 4: Louis Burton (FRA), Bureau Vallée – rigging failure
Dec. 15: Pip Hare (GBR), Medallia – dismasted
Dec. 16: Szabolcs Weöres (HUN), New Europe – broken D2 shroud
Dec. 30: Yannick Bestaven (FRA), Maître CoQ V – steerage damage
The Vendée Globe, raced in the 60-foot IMOCA, is the elite race round the world, solo, non-stop, and without assistance. On November 10, 40 skippers started the 2024-25 edition which begins and ends in Les Sables d’Olonne, France.
Armel Le Cléac’h, winning in 2017, holds the record for the 24,300 nm course of 74 days 03 hours 35 minutes 46 seconds. Only one sailor has won it twice: Michel Desjoyeaux in 2001 and 2009. This is tenth running of the race.
Source: VG2024, SSN-https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2025/01/06/pressure-is-constant-part-of-the-game/
