Vendée Globe Update: Charlie Dalin Extends Lead Towards Tasmania
As of Wednesday evening, December 11, 2024, Charlie Dalin, the skipper of Macif Santé Prévoyance, has maintained his lead in the Vendée Globe sailing race, now approaching Tasmania, south of Australia. Dalin has been at the forefront for nine consecutive days, with a significant lead of 326.57 nautical miles over his closest competitor, Sébastien Simon of Groupe Dubreuil, who is currently in second place despite facing challenges due to a broken starboard foil. Yoann Richomme, sailing for Paprec Arkéa, remains in third place, trailing Dalin by 407.15 nautical miles.
Dalin expressed confidence in his performance, stating, "Everything is going well, I've found my cruising speed," while acknowledging the demanding conditions he has faced in recent weeks. He has not focused extensively on the Pacific Ocean yet, preferring to concentrate on his current section of the race.
Weather Challenges for Competitors
The race continues to present challenges for the remaining competitors. Many skippers are navigating through a windless zone, with some at risk of being caught by a ridge of high pressure that could create significant gaps in the rankings. Clarisse Crémer, currently in 12th place, noted the difficulties posed by the lack of wind but remains optimistic about facing an impending depression forming under Australia.
The top ten rankings have remained stable, with notable performances from skippers like Thomas Rettant and Jérémie Beyou, who are also contending with the harsh conditions of the Indian Ocean. Beyou, in particular, described the situation as "a bit of a disaster" due to strong gusts and rough waves.
Current Rankings and Future Outlook
As of the latest update, the top ten standings in the Vendée Globe are as follows: 1. Charlie Dalin (Macif Santé Prévoyance) - 12,559.95 nautical miles from the finish 2. Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) - 326.57 nautical miles behind 3. Yoann Richomme (Paprec Arkéa) - 407.15 nautical miles behind 4. Thomas Rettant (Vulnerable) - 639.08 nautical miles behind 5. Jérémie Beyou (Charal) - 753.63 nautical miles behind 6. Nicolas Lunven (Holcim - PRB) - 788.93 nautical miles behind 7. Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable) - 866.37 nautical miles behind 8. Paul Meilhat (Biotherm) - 897.44 nautical miles behind 9. Yannick Bestaven (Maître Coq V) - 939.83 nautical miles behind 10. Boris Herrmann (Malizia - Seaexplorer) - 1,214.33 nautical miles behind
With the race entering a critical phase, the skippers will need to navigate the upcoming weather patterns carefully as they approach the Pacific Ocean. The competition remains fierce, and unexpected developments could still alter the standings as the sailors continue their grueling journey around the globe.
