Vendée Globe: Richomme Maintains Lead as Cape Horn Approaches
As the 10th edition of the Vendée Globe progresses, Yoann Richomme (Paprec Arkéa) continues to lead the race, approaching Cape Horn with a significant pace. As of the latest update on December 22nd, at 19:00 GMT+1, Richomme's lead over Charlie Dalin (Macif Santé Prévoyance) has narrowed from 37.87 miles at 07:00 to just 24.28 miles. Both skippers are set to round Cape Horn, marking a critical transition from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. Richomme expressed excitement about this milestone, stating, "We'll pass Cape Horn on the morning of the 24th, or even the evening of the 23rd. It's a great passage time, ahead of the record by almost two or three days. I can't wait to get through that moment; it will be the end of the southern seas, a great Christmas present."
Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil), currently in third place, is facing challenges due to the loss of his right foil, which has hindered his performance. Despite this setback, Simon maintains a comfortable lead of over 800 miles ahead of the rest of the fleet. He expressed his frustration at being unable to compete closely with the leading duo, saying, "It's frustrating to see the two friends in front leave, but unfortunately, it's a battle that I can't play."
The competition remains fierce among the top ten skippers, with less than 300 miles separating fourth-placed Thomas Ruyant (Vulnerable) and tenth-placed Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable). Notably, Yannick Bestaven (Maître Coq V) has moved up to seventh place, overtaking Boris Herrmann (Malizia - Seaexplorer). Herrmann remarked on their close competition, stating, "I see Yannick all the time; we're fighting hard here."
Current Ranking of the Vendée Globe (as of December 22, 19:00 GMT+1)
- Yoann Richomme (Paprec Arkéa) - 7,642.77 nautical miles from the finish
- Charlie Dalin (Macif Santé Prévoyance) - 24.28 miles from the leader
- Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) - 409.33 miles from the leader
- Thomas Ruyant (Vulnerable) - 1,273.93 miles from the leader
- Jérémie Beyou (Charal) - 1,321.68 miles from the leader
- Nicolas Lunven (Holcim - PRB) - 1,351.78 miles from the leader
- Yannick Bestaven (Maître Coq V) - 1,455.86 miles from the leader
- Boris Herrmann (Malizia - Seaexplorer) - 1,464.41 miles from the leader
- Paul Meilhat (Biotherm) - 1,526.90 miles from the leader
- Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable) - 1,551.51 miles from the leader
The race continues to be a test of endurance and skill as competitors navigate the challenging waters of the southern seas, with the festive season adding a unique layer of anticipation to their journey.
