Single-handed Yacht Race Leaders Soon in Tradewinds

Press Release January 11, 2013

Race Leader François Gabart: Photo credit Vendee Globe

The duel between leaders in the Vendee Globe round-the-world race, 'MACIF' and 'Banque Populaire' stalls in light airs.

With the official abandonment of Bernard Stamm (Cheminées Poujoulat) there remain only 12 boats in the race. The skipper of Cheminées Poujoulat pitstopped last night on the island of Horn refuelled, charged his batteries, climbed the mast to change a halyard, and to eat some pork and lentils prepared by the girlfriend of Unaï Bazurko.

Leaders soon will be in the tradewinds The duel between MACIF and Banque Populaire is now stalled by light airs. François Gabart was the first to tack into the wallow of the St. Helena High. He is now sailing on starboard tack in a lightening wind to the northeast and east. As a result, the gap of 85 miles between the two men should now increase.

There are the dueling duos and then there are solitary competitors battling alone. North of the Falklands, Jean Le Cam (SynerCiel) is ensconced in fifth position in lighter winds not making as much headway as he would prefer.

Mike Golding (Gamesa) is at 178 miles behind Jean Le Cam, who went to the west of the island group whilst Golding is going east, but he feels he can still reduce that deficit.

Race standings:
1. François Gabart (Macif) in 4869.3 miles from the finish
2. Armel Le Cléac'h (Banque Populaire) 82.4 miles (DTL)
3. Jean Pierre Dick (Virbac-Paprec 3) to 351 miles (DTL)
4. Alex Thomson (Hugo Boss) at 357.4 miles (DTL)
5. Jean Le Cam (SynerCiel) 1550.3 miles (DTL)