A Historic Milestone… But Already Looking Ahead
Behind this unprecedented achievement, another challenge is already taking shape: the return south. The crossing point selected this morning will have a major influence on the remainder of the race. Sam Goodchild chose to shift his trajectory further west in order to better prepare for the descent back towards Vendée. “I could have crossed the Arctic Circle a little faster, but the main objective was to improve the return route. “By extending slightly further west, I’m hoping to benefit from a better reaching angle towards Vendée.” The MACIF Santé Prévoyance skipper is also seeking to anticipate the next weather traps, including an area of light winds and a depression forecast to affect Ireland. One thing, however, seems certain. A return route through the North Sea and the English Channel is not part of his plans. “That possibility isn’t really open to me and, honestly, I’m quite happy that’s the case.”
The Race Remains Wide Open
At the front of the fleet since the opening hours of the race, the Franco-British skipper retains a comfortable advantage over Elodie Bonafous and the chasing pack. A valuable margin. But not yet one large enough to approach the second half of the Vendée Arctique with complete confidence. Because while the Arctic Circle is now astern, the hierarchy remains far from settled. Indeed, the toughest part of the race may still lie ahead. The question now is who will best transform this Arctic adventure into victory in Les Sables d’Olonne, where the leading boats are expected between Sunday evening and Monday, according to the latest routing projections.
