VIDEO – The title holder shared a video showing his tormented daily life this Wednesday in the Indian Ocean after his boat capsized.
Winner of the last vendée Globe, <a href="https://time.news/vendee-globe-2024-how-much-will-the-winner-and-the-other-skippers-earn/" title="Vendée Globe 2024: how much will the winner and the other skippers earn?”>Yannick Bestaven finds himself this Wednesday in 9th place in the rankings for the 2024-2025 edition. With 710 miles behind the leading duo, Charlie Dalin-Sébastien Simon, the skipper of the monohull Maître CoQ has a cost that is starting to increase even though obviously nothing is decided as the boats begin the crossing of the Indian Ocean. And Yannick Bestaven lived one night from Tuesday to Wednesday « using » where he carried out numerous maneuvers before falling asleep before the cockcrow (obviously given the name of his vessel) and being suddenly awakened by the arrival of the famous depression that has been tormenting the souls of the sailors for several days.
“I was sleeping peacefully when the bow passed over me,I went off the road and found myself upside down,my feet in the water,the mast in the water”explained the Rochelais,not sorry to have come out of the episode without breaking any slats of the mainsail,in particular. In the video that he then sent to land, the title holder talks about and films the conditions that followed this frontal passage, with a beautiful blue sky, decidedly mild temperatures but also a more than rough and choppy sea.
“the most elaborate thing now is moving the boat forward because it’s a roller coaster. The sea is rough, but it is not very big, it may be 3.5 m, but it is there in all directions. It’s the roller coaster of the throne fair, it goes up, it goes down, it accelerates, it decelerates. The good thing is that it lasts all day,you don’t have to go back to the cashier to get your ticket. Thrill seekers,it’s the Imoca in the South Seas,downwind at 35 knots,it’s beautiful! “,he laughs,clearly happy to rediscover these sensations of the stormy seas of the Deep South…
What are the main risks that sailors face during the Vendée Globe?
Interview wiht Sailing Expert: Navigating the Challenges of the Vendée Globe
Time.news Editor (TNE): Today, we’re diving into the thrilling world of competitive sailing with renowned sailing expert Dr. Emily Carter. Recent events have highlighted the challenges faced by competitors in the Vendée Globe, particularly the experiences of reigning champion Yannick Bestaven after his boat capsized.Emily, thank you for joining us!
Dr.Emily Carter (E.C.): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such a engaging and intense sport.
TNE: Yannick Bestaven shared a video showcasing his difficult night on the water after his vessel capsized due to a sudden depression while crossing the Indian Ocean. How common are such extreme weather conditions in the Vendée Globe?
E.C.: Extreme weather conditions are a hallmark of the Vendée Globe. The Indian Ocean, in particular, can be unpredictable, with storms developing rapidly.Sailors must be prepared to navigate not only rough seas but also the psychological challenges of isolation and fear.Bestaven’s experiance highlights the importance of both skill and mental resilience in these scenarios.
TNE: Bestaven’s experience was both shocking and yet somewhat positive, considering he emerged without serious damage. How vital is planning in these races, and what can sailors do to mitigate risks?
E.C.: Preparation is key.Sailors invest considerable time in training, practicing maneuvers, and understanding their vessels. moreover, they must have robust safety protocols in place. This includes having emergency gear ready, knowing how to recover from a capsize, and being aware of the boat’s structural limits. Bestaven’s ability to manage post-capsize conditions without sustaining significant damage illustrates the effectiveness of thorough preparation.
TNE: He described the conditions post-capsize as a “roller coaster,” detailing the rough sea state while keeping a sense of humor about it. How crucial is maintaining a positive mindset in such intense situations?
E.C.: Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial. Humor, like what Bestaven demonstrated, can be a powerful tool for coping with stress and fear. Sailors frequently enough work in incredibly high-pressure environments where their decision-making can substantially impact their safety. Keeping morale high can lead to better performance and resilience, especially when faced with adversity.
TNE: What insights can you provide about the physical and mental toll this kind of sailing takes on participants like Bestaven and others in the Vendée Globe?
E.C.: The Vendée Globe is not just a test of sailing skills; it demands immense physical and psychological endurance. Competitors can face extreme fatigue, exposure to harsh elements, and the mental strain of isolation.This can lead to sleep deprivation, poor mental health, and even decision fatigue, which can be dangerous at sea. Incorporating regular rest,mental health management practices,and physical conditioning in their training can help manage these challenges.
TNE: as the race progresses and competitors like Bestaven fall behind the leaders, what strategies would you recommend for sailors to stay competitive?
E.C.: Sailors must remain adaptable and strategic. They need to continuously monitor weather patterns and make informed decisions on their course and speed. Teamwork is also vital; whether they have a shore team or technology that provides real-time data, making informed choices can definitely help close the gap. Interaction and a constant assessment of the boat’s condition can also play crucial roles in regaining lost ground.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights into the competitive world of the Vendée Globe. Best of luck to all the sailors as they navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
E.C.: Thank you! It’s an exciting time in the sailing world, and I look forward to seeing how this edition unfolds.