The North Atlantic: The Hunt for Performance
The Vendée Globe kicks off in Les Sables d’Olonne, France, with skippers racing south through the North Atlantic in a fierce opening stage. This part of the race is critical for setting a solid pace.
“It’s the beginning of the race, and we have to be strategic from the get-go to gain an edge,” says Colman. “In the early days, the weather can change dramatically. We’ll navigate areas like the Doldrums—a region near the equator notorious for calm winds and sudden storms. Here, the strategy needs to balance ambition and caution, as one misstep can set you back miles.”
Every skipper in the fleet will be pushing hard, knowing that the performance gains in the North Atlantic can create crucial gaps among competitors. Yet, with the Doldrums looming, it’s a tense period where the unpredictable can rapidly alter the standings.
The South Atlantic: Embracing the Tradewinds
The North Atlantic behind them, the sailors next face the South Atlantic, where they can often count on the reliable push of the tradewinds along the Brazilian coast. Colman sees this as an opportunity to settle into a steady rhythm and catch a breath, but it’s also a time for renewed focus.
“Sailing along Brazil, we’re still in the race’s early stages, and each decision feels weighty. The weather’s usually milder, which helps settle the nerves. But as we near the Southern Hemisphere, we’re quickly reminded that challenges are lurking,” says Colman. “The South Atlantic is known for its early depressions, which bring high winds and surging seas. This part can really widen the gaps in the fleet—if you can stay ahead, the lead can be priceless.”
With powerful waves, intense weather, and the fleet beginning to spread out, this stretch keeps skippers on their toes. “It’s Russian roulette out here,” he adds. “A bold strategy could pay off massively, or it could cost you everything.”
The Indian Ocean: Raw Elements and a Heartfelt Passage Home
After battling the South Atlantic lows, the sailors enter the vast Indian Ocean, an unforgiving environment that Colman has encountered before. Despite his daunting first experience in 2016, he’s determined to tackle it with renewed strength and resilience.
“The Indian Ocean is where the elements truly show their teeth,” he says. “We’ll be pushing ourselves to the limit, letting the boats ride the waves, and seeing just what they can handle. It’s also a part of the journey I’m especially excited for because I’ll pass near New Zealand. It’s a symbolic homecoming, even if it’s just a brief encounter with familiar waters.”
For many sailors, the Indian Ocean is a mental as well as a physical challenge. With relentless winds and little to break the horizon but waves, the isolation becomes strikingly real.
Cape Horn: The Ambivalence of ‘Deliverance’
The Pacific Ocean is the longest leg of the journey, stretching from New Zealand to the infamous Cape Horn. Known as the sailor’s rite of passage, rounding Cape Horn marks a psychological milestone: leaving the Pacific behind for the Atlantic and the final stretch home.
“Cape Horn is the very definition of ambivalence,” Colman reflects. “On one hand, there’s a feeling of deliverance—of knowing that you’re heading towards the finish. But on the other hand, it’s an uphill journey ahead, and there are still thousands of miles to cover.”
Rounding Cape Horn means navigating massive swells, gale-force winds, and intense cold. Yet, for Colman, this is a moment of triumph as well as challenge, as he pushes through this legendary passage.
The Bay of Biscay: The Final Stretch to the Finish Line
As the race comes full circle back to Les Sables d’Olonne, the sailors face the Bay of Biscay and the Gulf of Gascony. Often described as the “garden gate” to home, this part is deceptively challenging. Many races have been won or lost in this final leg, making vigilance essential.
“We’re close, but anything can still happen here,” Colman notes. “It’s not over until the boat is moored at the dock, and you’re standing on solid ground. The Gulf of Gascony can be unpredictable, and you can’t afford to let your guard down.”
The final miles are some of the most intense, as the mental and physical tolls of months at sea culminate in a sprint to the finish. For Colman, finally touching land will be a moment of fulfilment after a journey that has tested his skills, endurance, and resilience.
Ready to Embark
With less than 72 hours until the start, Colman is ready to set sail on what he describes as the adventure of a lifetime. His journey will not only challenge him but also push the limits of his boat and spirit.
Stay tuned as Conrad Colman takes on the Vendée Globe, racing solo around the world, one wave at a time.
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