A New Era for the Vendée Globe: Charlie Dalin Shatters Records
Eight years after Armel Le Cleac’h etched his name in Vendée Globe history, his record has been eclipsed. Charlie Dalin, skipper of Apivia, emerged victorious in the 10th edition of the grueling race, completing the circumnavigation nearly ten days faster than Le Cleac’h’s 2016 feat.
In an exclusive interview, Le Cleac’h reflected on Dalin’s remarkable achievement, acknowledging that the writing was on the wall midway through the race. “I knew my record was in jeopardy when Charlie, Yoann Richomme, and Sébastien Simon surged ahead of my reference time,” he admitted.
The technological advancements in the intervening years played a significant role in Dalin’s triumph. “these new boats are a different breed altogether,” Le Cleac’h explained. “They boast nearly 15% more potential, a testament to the evolution of foil technology.”
Foils, essentially underwater wings, have revolutionized ocean racing. Le Cleac’h, a pioneer in their adoption, recalled the initial skepticism surrounding their use. “In 2016, we were venturing into uncharted territory,” he said. “some thought we were crazy, but we believed in the potential of foils to transform the sport.”
Today, foils have become an integral part of Imoca 60 design, allowing boats to achieve unprecedented speeds, especially upwind and crosswind. This was evident in the 24-hour distance records shattered during the South Atlantic leg, with skippers regularly clocking 500 to 600 miles in a single day – a feat unimaginable just eight years ago.
This technological leap has created a widening gap between the frontrunners and the chasing pack. Dalin, Richomme, and Simon capitalized on their speed advantage, expertly navigating weather systems and maintaining a commanding lead throughout the race.Le Cleac’h, who closely followed Dalin’s progress on the race tracker, noted the similarities between their respective journeys. “Until the Cape of Good Hope, we were on a similar trajectory,” he observed. “But then they pulled away,leaving me at a point comparable to Jérémie Beyou’s current position.”
Despite the loss of his record, Le Cleac’h expressed genuine admiration for Dalin, a sailor he has known since Dalin’s early days in the Imoca circuit. “He’s someone I respect deeply,” Le Cleac’h said. “We have similar backgrounds, and I know firsthand the challenges of the Vendée Globe. He’s earned this victory.”
Dalin’s triumph marks a new era for the Vendée Globe, one defined by relentless innovation and breathtaking speeds.As the race continues to evolve, one can only wonder what new records will be shattered in the years to come.
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