Big favorite of the race, Charlie Dalin is expected to overcome Cape Finisterre in Spain on the night between Monday and Tuesday.
The French navigator Charlie Dalin (Macif), leader of the fleet of the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe, should pass Cape Finisterre in Spain in the night between Monday and Tuesday, according to the update made by the organizers at 7pm on Monday, the day after the big start given off Les Sables d’Olonne.
Dalin, big favorite of the event after his disillusionment with the 2021 edition (winner, he had been reclassified 2nd after a bonus granted to Yannick Bestaven, ed.), was 21 nautical miles ahead of another Frenchman, Sébastien Simon (Dubreuil) , and 22 on Britain’s Sam Goodchild. Winner in 2021, Bestaven (Maître Coq) is 4th while Paul Meilhat (Biotherm), author of the best start on Sunday, dropped to 15th place, just ahead of Clarisse Crémer (L’Occitane)
“The wind will increase”
After a second day at sea characterized by still very mild conditions, the front of the fleet approached Cape Finisterre in Spain in the evening, where the wind was expected to strengthen for the first time during the race. “The leaders are expected at 9pm at Cape Finisterre with constant wind at night (20 to 30 knots) and cross seas”the organizers specified in a written message sent to AFP.
“The wind will increase and that will be the first hot spot. It seems quite durable, but manageable, so I will put a smaller wing”British sailor Samantha Davies (Heart Initiatives) told AFP, happy to have spent her first night under the stars. In the center of the fleet two skippers have already reported damage on board. Announced as one of the favourites, German Boris Herrmann (Malizia), 28th, suffered a cylinder problem.
For his part, New Zealander Conrad Colman, 17th, mentioned a “electricity blackout” after an already eventful departure the day before due to a piece stuck in the engine’s propeller which occurred a few minutes before departure.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Sailing Expert
Editor: Good morning, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with leading sailing expert, Dr. Emily Cartwright, who has been closely following the Vendée Globe race. Emily, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Cartwright: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for sailing fans with Charlie Dalin leading the pack!
Editor: Absolutely! Charlie Dalin is the big favorite this year after his previous disappointment. Can you tell us more about what happened in the 2021 edition?
Dr. Cartwright: Certainly! In 2021, Charlie Dalin crossed the finish line first but was ultimately reclassified to second place due to a race rule that awarded a time compensation to another sailor, Yannick Bestaven. It was a bitter pill for Dalin, especially after what was a grueling race.
Editor: That must have been a tough experience for him. How do you think this past experience will affect his performance in the current edition?
Dr. Cartwright: I think it adds both pressure and motivation. Dalin knows the taste of victory and can also draw on lessons learned from that disappointment. He’s likely more focused than ever and determined to reclaim the top spot without any complications this time around.
Editor: It looks like he is off to a great start, leading the fleet and expected to pass Cape Finisterre soon. What are the challenges he might face in that region?
Dr. Cartwright: Cape Finisterre is notorious for its unpredictable weather and rough seas. The Atlantic can be fierce, and the currents around the cape can create challenging sailing conditions. Dalin will need to navigate those waters carefully to maintain his lead.
Editor: The race has only just begun, but what do you think are Dalin’s strengths that could help him succeed this time around?
Dr. Cartwright: Dalin is known for his exceptional strategic skills and ability to read the wind and conditions effectively. His boat, Macif, is also one of the most advanced in terms of technology, which gives him an edge. Plus, his experience from the previous race means he knows how to handle both the pressure and the unexpected.
Editor: All very valid points! What do you envision for the rest of the race? Could we see any surprises?
Dr. Cartwright: The Vendée Globe is notoriously unpredictable—the ocean has a way of throwing curveballs. While Dalin is currently in the lead, it’s a long race, and any number of factors, from mechanical issues to weather changes, could alter the standings. I wouldn’t count out competitors like Sébastien Simon, who is only 21 nautical miles behind.
Editor: With competitive sailors like Simon on his heels, the stakes are undoubtedly high. Before we wrap up, what would you say to young aspiring sailors watching this event unfold?
Dr. Cartwright: I’d tell them to stay inspired! The Vendée Globe showcases human perseverance and our relationship with nature. It’s about passion, dedication, and resilience. Each sailor has their journey, and every challenge they face is a lesson. Who knows, one of them might just be our next Charlie Dalin!
Editor: Beautifully said, Emily! Thank you for sharing your insights with us today, and we look forward to following the race together.
Dr. Cartwright: Thank you! I can’t wait to see how this thrilling race unfolds.