Vendée Globe 2024: Jean Le Cam Maintains Lead Amidst Challenges
As of November 17, 2024, Jean Le Cam, sailing aboard Tout commence en Finistère - Armor-Lux, continues to dominate the Vendée Globe, the prestigious solo, non-stop sailing race. In the latest ranking released at 7 a.m., Le Cam, the oldest competitor at 65 years old, holds a significant lead of 20 nautical miles over his nearest rival, Alain Roura of Hublot, and 35 nautical miles ahead of Sébastien Simon from Groupe Dubreuil, who is currently in third place. Le Cam's strategic decision to sail east along the African coast, while most of the fleet opted for a western route, has proven advantageous as he navigates through shifting wind patterns.
However, the race has not been without its challenges. Louis Burton, helming Bureau Vallée, reported hearing a "big crack" during the night, which led to the discovery of cracks on the deck of his boat. Despite concerns over the structural integrity of his Imoca, Burton has chosen to continue competing, demonstrating the resilience and determination typical of Vendée Globe sailors.
Current Rankings of the Vendée Globe (as of November 17, 2024, 7 a.m.)
- Jean Le Cam (Tout commence en Finistère - Armor-Lux) - 22,513.76 miles from the finish
- Alain Roura (Hublot) - 20.58 miles
- Sébastien Simon (Groupe Dubreuil) - 34.65 miles
- Benjamin Ferré (Monnoyeur - Duo for a job) - 34.76 miles
- Antoine Cornic (Human Immobilier) - 50.92 miles
- Sam Goodchild (Vulnerable) - 52.16 miles
- Arnaud Boissières (La Mie Câline) - 57.97 miles
- Giancarlo Pedote (Prysmian) - 65.12 miles
- Conrad Colman (MS Amlin) - 65.22 miles
- Damien Seguin (Groupe Apicil) - 88.55 miles
Notably, Maxime Sorel has abandoned the race, marking a significant moment in this year's edition.
