At 1.02pm this Sunday, the 40 solo sailors around the world set off from Les Sables d’Olonne. The fleet struggles to advance in a windless area.
Liberation came with a cannon shot at exactly 1.02pm. The 40 sailors of the Vendée Globe 2024-2025, who had been waiting since mid-morning in front of Les Sables d’Olonne after a triumphant exit from the port across the canal, finally let go of their horses despite very light winds of just four knots. Terrible conditions that pushed the organizers to consider postponing the start, finally confirmed at midday. “It will be a small relief not to end up in the sea tonightSamantha Davies (Initiatives Cœur) rejoiced early in the morning, relieved to have avoided a tobacco attack right from the start.
The show was therefore not really there for the sailors ready to swallow an indigestible programme: 45,000 km (24,300 miles) of travel leaving on the left the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin and the legendary Cape Horn, three natural signs before starting a long journey along the Atlantic to the city of Vendée. All alone on their monohull, without assistance and without stopovers, obviously.
Less than 70 days for the winner?
The favorites to succeed Yannick Bestaven (Maître CoQ), present to defend his crown, will perhaps take less than seventy days to complete the legendary circumnavigation at the helm of the Imocas, 18-metre monohulls with foils, all of the latest generation. If conditions are favorable, Armel Le Cléac’h‘s record dating back to the 2016-2017 edition is in its final weeks (74 days, 3 hours, 35 minutes and 46 seconds).
There are around ten sailors among the favorites who can boast of the record-breaking tenth edition. Never have so many competitors started since 1989 (33 four years ago). Among them we find six women, a record equaled, but also fifteen beginners who discovered between 8 and 10 on Sunday morning the magic of climbing the canal in a euphoric atmosphere. A triumphant farewell for the hosts after an emotional passage on the pier when they had to leave their loved ones.
While the event began in full confinement four years ago, the public happily resumed its habits in Les Sables d’Olonne. Organizers expected between 300,000 and 400,000 spectators along the quays and on the coast. An enormous popular success which was also confirmed on the water with the presence of around 1000 boats to accompany the sailors at sea.
SEE ALSO – Hugo Vargas-Rios’ splendid long-range goal for Dijon against Concarneau in the national team on 8 November (1-2 win)
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Sailing Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into the thrilling world of solo sailing as we kick off the Vendée Globe 2024-2025. Joining us is renowned sailing expert and former competitor, Laura Hawkins. Thanks for being here, Laura.
Laura Hawkins: Thank you for having me! It’s exhilarating to discuss an event as iconic as the Vendée Globe.
Editor: Absolutely! The race began this Sunday with 40 brave sailors setting off from Les Sables d’Olonne. What are your initial thoughts on the conditions they faced at the start?
Laura Hawkins: Starting a race with such light winds—just four knots—is challenging, to say the least. It can lead to a lot of frustration because the sailors have to rely on their sailing skills to coax their boats along. At that slow pace, it can feel like time stands still, which is the last thing you want when you’re embarking on a nearly 45,000 km journey.
Editor: That’s a great point. Many of the sailors expressed relief at finally launching, especially Samantha Davies, who humorously noted she was glad to avoid a “tobacco attack.” Can you explain what she meant by that?
Laura Hawkins: Sure! A “tobacco attack” is a term that refers to the anxiety and stress of racing in poor conditions right off the bat. It’s a play on words indicating the pressure that can build up in such situations. It’s great to hear that sailors are finding humor even with tough sailing conditions ahead.
Editor: Humor is definitely essential in this sport! Now, can you elaborate on the significance of the Vendée Globe itself? What makes it an iconic challenge for solo sailors?
Laura Hawkins: The Vendée Globe is often referred to as the Everest of sailing. It’s the ultimate test of endurance and skill. Sailing solo around the world without any assistance requires not just exceptional sailing talent, but also mental resilience and strategic thinking. The course takes sailors past the three great capes—Good Hope, Leeuwin, and Horn—each presenting its own set of formidable challenges, from storms to icy waters.
Editor: With such a grueling journey ahead, what are some of the strategies these sailors might employ to make it through the early stages of the race when conditions are less than ideal?
Laura Hawkins: In the beginning, sailors will focus on maintaining speed and positioning. They’ll likely concentrate on finding any pockets of wind and employing techniques that maximize their boat’s efficiency. Staying calm and keeping a clear mind is crucial, especially when dealing with unpredictable wind patterns. Managing resources, such as food and mental stamina, is also key during the initial days at sea.
Editor: That’s such valuable insight! As we look ahead to the weeks of challenges the sailors will face, how do you see the race shaping up? Any predictions on who might have an edge?
Laura Hawkins: It’s tough to predict because so much can change in a matter of hours, but typically, younger sailors with fresh ideas might have an advantage alongside seasoned veterans who know how to handle their boats and the conditions best. It’s often about who can stay the most consistent while tackling the unpredictable nature of the ocean.
Editor: Exciting insights, Laura! Thank you for sharing your expertise on the Vendée Globe. We look forward to following the sailors’ journeys and the unfolding drama of the race.
Laura Hawkins: Thank you! It’s going to be an incredible adventure to watch. Let’s hope for fair winds and safe voyages for all the sailors!
Editor: Indeed! Stay tuned, everyone, as we continue to report on the Vendée Globe and the incredible stories that will emerge from this epic sailing competition!